A Ball State University senior is preparing to run for Miss Gay Indiana in 2008 only days after placing sixth in the female impersonation pageant.
Nathan Smith, who was the Miss Gay Muncie runner-up, competed in the event Wednesday and Thursday in Indianapolis.
Smith competed against nine other contestants, and he won the male interview portion of the pageant.
The male interview portion consisted of speaking with judges while contestants wore suits and ties.
Smith said winning the interview segment is a direct reflection of himself as a person.
"I'm not just a boy on a stage with a character," he said, "and it was recognized."
Smith said people did not understand the importance of winning male interview.
"I broke down and I cried and cried and cried," Smith said. "I was so humbled."
Smith said he has his sights set for next year.
"I'm fine with not winning the pageant, and I have a full year to prepare for next year," Smith said. "The journey is just beginning for me."
Smith said Ball State drag shows are entertainment, but at this level, the competition was stronger and the experience was incredible.
"When I got there I felt like a kid at the circus for the first time," he said.
David Keeley, president of Great Lakes Productions, said Smith received a standing ovation after his talent performance.
Smith said his presentation included a vocal performance that raised awareness for HIV/AIDS.
"It was really one of those things where I didn't know how to approach it," Smith said. "For them to recognize the work I put in, the whole thing was surreal. It's something I'll never forget."
Keeley said for someone with as much experience as himself, he never witnessed someone who was more determined than Smith.
"There were tears in the audience," he said. "The impact was right on the mark."
The pageant also included platform presentations, which are a statement from contestants about how they intend to enhance awareness about and raise money for HIV/AIDS organizations, Keeley said.
Kelly Sarrell said Smith's friends were instrumental in helping him get through the competitions.
"I don't think he would have been able to make it through without his friends and the encouragement he's gotten," she said. "His friends are coming out of the wood work to support him."
Smith said he had a great team supporting him and a "sisterhood" with a lot of great advice backstage.
"I thought there was a sisterhood with the nine of us," he said. "To be included with that group of performers is very humbling and awe inspiring."
Smith said his character Chelsea Nichole Parker is like Smith, but with "a lot more hair and a lot more makeup."
"I don't see it as another person," he said. "It is a channel of my essence, my soul and my spirit."
Keeley said Miss Gay Indianas have always been a symbol of excellence in the state.
"[They] excel not only in the art of female impersonation, but also in their personal character in relation of how they deal with people on a day-to-day basis," Keeley said.
Keeley said Miss Gay Indiana functions as a positive role model not only for the homosexual world but also for heterosexuals.
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