Spectrum News: Miss Ohio USA trades sash and crown for white lab coat

University of Cincinnati pharmacy student and reigning Miss Ohio USA Nicole Wess is back from her time competing in the Miss USA pageant but says the experience will stay with her as she continues her studies.

Wess said she was grateful for the opportunity to represent the state and meet other passionate women from across the country.

“I learned a lot about myself, my confidence,” she told Spectrum News. “I’m excited to use those relationships, those connections, those networking skills I’ve learned to apply that into my daily life and into my career.”

Wess said she considers Miss Ohio USA "a title to serve," but her work giving back in her community won't end when she passes on the crown. As she continues to train as a pharmacist, she said her goal is to continue to work in underserved communities after graduation in 2023.

Watch the Spectrum News report.

Featured photo at top of Nicole Wess with volunteers at A Child's Hope International. Photo provided.