Hey, friends! 🌟 Let’s dive into the inspiring journey of Alma Cooper, a true force of nature who just became Miss Michigan USA and snagged the national title in 2024. This 23-year-old powerhouse isn’t just about glitz and glam; she’s a West Point grad, an active-duty Army soldier, and a Knight-Hennessy scholar at Stanford, all while tackling food insecurity head-on. So, how did she get here? Let’s break it down!
Finding Your Why: The First Step to Success
Okay, but can we talk about the importance of finding your “why”? 🧐 Alma believes this is the first step in chasing your dreams, and honestly, she’s onto something. Knowing what truly matters to you can light a fire under you when doubts start creeping in. Imagine having that guiding star to keep you focused—who wouldn’t want that?
For Alma, this sense of purpose was cultivated early on. Growing up in a family where selflessness was a core value, she watched her parents—her dad serving over two decades in the Army and her mom dedicated to teaching—put others first. Isn’t that inspiring? 🌈 Her sister’s special needs also shaped her understanding of service, making it a natural fit for Alma to step into roles that uplift those around her.
So, how do you find your “why”? Think about what makes your heart race and what issues you’re passionate about. When you align your goals with your values, magic happens. Who else feels that connection? ✨
Stepping Out of Comfort Zones
Alma’s journey didn’t happen in a bubble. After a transformative summer camp at West Point at just 16, she realized the Army was more than just a career—it was an opportunity to be part of something bigger. “From the moment I stepped on campus, I saw that West Point is focused on service, and that resonated with me,” she recalls. Talk about a lightbulb moment! 💡
She faced challenges head-on, even when math wasn’t her strong suit. But she chose a major in mathematical science because she loved telling stories through numbers. That’s some serious courage, right? 💪 Her dad’s advice to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable” became her mantra, pushing her to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
Alma’s family legacy of resilience played a huge role in her journey. She often reflects on her parents’ stories of overcoming obstacles, including her mom’s past experiences with food insecurity. Those narratives fueled Alma’s commitment to combatting these issues today. Does anyone else feel inspired by family stories of resilience? 🌟
Mentorship and Leadership
As Alma progressed in her career, she found mentors like Col. Julia O. Coxen, who encouraged her to aim high. Instead of jumping straight into operational Army life after West Point, Alma was guided to apply for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program at Stanford. Plot twist: this was a unique opportunity that could amplify her impact! 🎓
“Don’t be the first to say no to yourself,” Coxen told her, and thank goodness Alma took that advice! This led her to explore studies in data science and nutrition, amplifying her mission to address food insecurity. She’s not just collecting accolades; she’s making a real difference!
Alma’s motto, “If you see me, you can be me,” is a powerful reminder of the importance of visibility and representation. She aims to inspire young students across the nation, showing them that they can achieve their dreams while serving their country. Isn’t that what we all need? 🌍
Chasing Dreams Beyond Titles
Fast forward to today: Alma is using her national platform to advocate for food security while also continuing her studies. Talk about multitasking! And she’s not stopping there—Alma is gearing up to run all the major marathons around the globe. This combination of passion for fitness and commitment to wellness is elevating her game to new heights. 🏃♀️💨
Alma believes in living a fulfilling life by showing up authentically in every situation. “You can live a far more fulfilling life when you bring your full self into every situation,” she emphasizes. How true is that? It’s a perfect reminder to embrace who we are and chase our dreams unapologetically.
In her early 20s, Alma is just getting started, and she’s determined to push her limits. “The only limits you face are the ones you put on yourself,” she reminds us. So, what’s holding you back? Let’s chat about it! 💬