Belinda Renee: Miss USA 2010

Donald Trump introducing the show.

Natalie and Curtis opening the show.

We packed our bags, in hopes that we would be the one girl to be moved to the Planet Hollywood suite later that night, and fly our to NYC the very next morning. This was bitter sweet. The Miss Universe Staff, our chaperons, and the Miss USA class of 2010 class had become one big family! Being together for 2 and a half weeks brought us all so close. It was sad to think of us spreading across the U.S. after tonight.

Getting ready backstage before the big show!

Our wardrobe rack backstage.

Finals day morning came quickly. We headed straight to dress rehearsal then had 3 hours to get ready for the world wide televised show on NBC. A hairspray fog filled the backstage area and make up products were everywhere. Girls were quietly getting ready for the big show. The top 15 had already been chosen. It was all out of our hands now.

Opening Number Dance.

Before I knew it, I heard the pre-taped introductions going, and that meant one thing, the show had started! Next it was time for my dance group and I to open the show. Tik Tok came on and we rocked it out! Dancing in front of millions of people on network TV is something I will never forget.

Announcement of Top 15.

After the dance, we "patiently" awaited for Natalie and Curtis to announce the top 15. I thought it wasn't in my cards, till I heard NEBRASKA called! I can't explain the joy that came over me as walked to place and couldn't stop smiling.

Top 15 states on the map. Photo curtsy of Carly Palmer.

Top 15 in swimsuit. Photo curtsy of Carly Palmer.

Next we were backstage. Lou was prepping us for our swimsuit walks. We were so excited and nervous all at the same time! The Boys Like Girls started to play Heartbreak and it was about time for us to take the stage.

Top 15 in swimsuit.

Swimsuit went great and I am so blessed to have made it that far. But making it in the top 10 was not in my cards. I went backstage and changed into evening gown and then went out to perform the evening gown dance. Then backstage again to cheer on the remaining girls.

As we went back on stage. Two girls received special awards: Miss Photogenic (voted by the online voters) and Miss Congeniality (voted by the contestants). Miss Congeniality reflects the respect and admiration of the delegate's peers who voted for her as the most congenial, charismatic and inspirational participant. To my great surprise, I heard, "And Miss Congeniality goes to.....Nebraska!!" I was shocked, honored, and thankful. This meant the absolute world to me. I took my place on stage, with my eyes full of tears. I had made friends to last a lifetime. I will always be forever thankful.

Miss Congeniality 2010.

The show went quick from then on out. Rima Fakih, Miss Michigan, was named the new Miss USA 2010. I was so happy for her! Then it was off to see my family and friends who had made the trip out to support me! I can't thank each and every person enough for this amazing opportunity to represent the state of Nebraska at Miss USA. Although I didn't win, I am happy to leave my legacy as the first Miss Nebraska to ever win Miss Congeniality and the first Miss Nebraska in 30 years to make the top 15!