Biochemist Camille Schrier, 24, was recently crowned the new Miss Virginia thanks to her work shared on stage.
Contestant Camille Schrier decided to showcase an uncommon yet unforgettable talent at the Virginia beauty pageant…. so was it a song? Magic? Baton twirling?
Try science experiment.
Schrier dawned a lab coat complete with goggles to demonstrate the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
That is something you definitely don’t see every day!
After mixing a solution of chemicals into beakers, Schrier’s experiment concluded with an explosion of blue and orange foam — known as the “Elephant Toothpaste” reaction.
Schrier said it was the recent revamping of the competition which allows greater value on genuine talent and social impact over appearance, that sparked her into entering the pageant circuit again.
“The evolution of the Miss America competition, which reflects greater inclusiveness, and an opportunity to make a difference and win scholarships inspired me to step forward this year and compete,” she revealed to IFLScience.
“I am more than Miss Virginia. I am Miss Biochemist, Miss Systems Biologist, Miss Future PharmD looking toward a pharmaceutical industry career.”
You can watch Schrier’s insanely cool experiment, below.
Instead of the swimsuit competition, competitors in Miss America 2.0 will spend more time highlighting their achievements and goals.
Dress codes have moved on from traditional evening gowns and candidates are now allowed to choose clothing that expresses their personalities.
Miss America has shifted into becoming more inclusive to women according to its website, instead of molding women into stereotypes.
“We are no longer a pageant. Miss America will represent a new generation of female leaders focused on scholarship, social impact, talent, and empowerment” said Chair of the Board of Trustees, Gretchen Carlson.
“We’re experiencing a cultural revolution in our country with women finding the courage to stand up and have their voices heard on many issues. Miss America is proud to evolve as an organization and join this empowerment movement.”
Schrier posted her win to Instagram with a caption reading:
“Have you ever had your entire life change in one instant? Last night, mine did, as I was crowned Miss Virginia 2019. I can’t even say that I’ve dreamt of this moment…because I never thought this was possible even in my wildest dreams. I am so excited to spend the next year traveling our commonwealth advocating for STEM education & drug safety and abuse prevention. Oh, and I’m going to MISS AMERICA! I’m overwhelmed with so many messages of support, and truly could not be more grateful.”
Schrier will not only represent Virginia in the nationwide competition but will also be a stand-out candidate for the very first “Miss America 2.0.”
Schrier holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees from Virginia Tech in Biochemistry and Systems Biology and is currently studying a Doctor of Pharmacy Degree at Virginia Commonwealth University.
She decided to do the science experiment as her talent as she wants to excite others when it comes to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields.
“I’m trying to be like Bill Nye,” she recently shared in a university blog. “That’s what I’m going for. I want to get kids excited, but I don’t want it to be boring.”
NOW WATCH: Sweden Actually Turns It’s Garbage Into Energy | Save The World