Wednesday, July 13, 2022

Augostina Mallous Visits Section 36!

Carlos Velez Studios
Section 36 had another visitor! 
Augostina Mallous is passionate about stopping human trafficking, a talented dancer, and the current Miss New Jersey. I was thrilled that she was willing to visit with us to discuss those topics, and a few more. 

So, let's see what happens when Augostina Mallous visits Section 36!

How did you celebrate winning the Miss New Jersey crown?

I slept! For an entire day! Then, my hometown of Middle Township held a parade in my honor a few days after I returned from Atlantic City! My family and close friends came to my family’s diner after the parade to celebrate more. I am very blessed to have such amazing, loving people in my life! 


What is something that Alyssa Sullivan did as Miss New Jersey that you would like to emulate or expand upon?

Miss New Jersey has always been put on a pedestal; a woman that maybe not every person could relate to or connect with. Alyssa truly strived to change that image. She made Miss New Jersey a trailblazer and an influencer, while still showing that she is relatable and real. As the new Miss New Jersey, I plan to continue that and honor the legacy that Alyssa left. Miss New Jersey is an icon, but she’s also be the girl next door!


What did you learn about yourself at the Miss New Jersey competition that will help you at Miss America?

I learned SO many things about myself during the week. Placing high last year added tons of pressure for me this year, but I learned that I was able to overcome the doubts and pressure by staying focused on my goal and just being myself. There were times that I didn’t think I could do it and I would stress myself out; however, with some meditation and positive affirmations, I persevered and showed the judges who “Augie” is! 


How did you select your social impact initiative, “Stop the Traffic”?

I stumbled upon the statistic: human trafficking is the second most profitable, illegal industry in the world. This inspired me to do more research on trafficking, in which I discovered that it is prevalent in US and even in New Jersey. I was scared. Not only scared about the fact that anyone is susceptible to falling victim, but also by the lack of knowledge that I and so many others have about human trafficking. As a young woman in college who often travels alone, I wanted to take action. If I can just save one person by sharing information and making them aware of the issue, then that is the first step to eradicating trafficking as a whole. 


As a talented dancer, what do you enjoy most about performing your talent on stage?

I love every single thing about performing my passion for others. I think my favorite though, has to be hearing the audience clap after doing all of my fouetté turns!


You’re currently majoring in journalism. What drew you to that field?

There are so many stories in the world that need to be told. I discovered my love for writing at a young age, and so when it came time to decide where I was going to pursue higher education, I knew I wanted a school that had an excellent communications program in an area that had awesome connection-building opportunities. And that was Hofstra University for me! 


What is your personal fitness routine?

Growing up as a competitive dancer, I learned to love mental health and physical fitness at a young age. I exercise 4-5 days a week, in addition to dancing and waitressing (yes, serving tables at a diner is exercise)! I’m also a trained Zumba instructor, and I love to swim and taking long walks on the beach with my best friends! 


If you had an extra ticket to Somerset Patriots baseball game, who would you take with you? Why?

My dad! He’s the big sports fan in the family, and is always watching games on his phone when he has the time. He works so hard every day at our family’s business, and I’d love to spend a day with him doing what he loves! 


Is there a feature or activity at a baseball game that you’d especially like to experience?

I’d love to throw the first pitch at a game! I’ve seen former Miss NJ’s do it and I’ve always wanted to try! Hopefully my strength from hand standing will kick in, who knows?! I’m up for the challenge! 


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She definitely needs to do this! 

As always, I want to thank Augostina for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to go with the interview.

As Augostina continues her time as Miss New Jersey, I encourage you to check out her title's website and social media like Facebook and Instagram. They're great ways to keep track of everything she has going on! 

I also want to wish her the best of luck when she competes for the Miss America crown this winter. It would be wonderful to have another Section 36 visitor wear that crown!

Thanks again Augostina, and good luck!

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