.::MARZO 2007::.

MISS IDEA 2006

JULIANA MORALES

by Samantha Dossena

Juliana Morales is the winner of Miss Idea 2006 Contest, which for the first time has become a talent show. She impressed the public with her rendition of Andrea Boccelli’s famous song “Con te partirò”, giving a heartfelt and powerful performance. The spectators were impressed with the presence of this young lady as much as to her commanding, yet soothing voice. The words “angelic” and “siren-like” were whispered in the audience as she completed her successful presentation. Juliana has accepted to be interviewed by our magazine so that our readers may find out more about her.

L’Idea: It is a common belief that one can tell a lot about someone’s personality by the books they read. What is your favorite book? Why?

Juliana: My favorite book is “Five People You Meet in Heaven” by Mitch Albom, because it shows that it is tough sometimes to live life to the fullest, especially in today’s world. This book allowed me to look at things in a different way and to make sure I do things that I will not regret in the future.

L’Idea: If you were an animal, what would you be and why?

Juliana: If I were an animal I would want to be cheetah because it is the fastest and smartest animal in the wild.

L’Idea: Who is your favorite singer? Why?

Juliana: My favorite singer is Alicia Keys, because her songs and her lyrics are very different from many other artists. Her songs talk about interesting topics and subjects, and she is able to incorporate many ideas into them. She has a unique style, which shows through the beat of her music. Alicia Keys is able to play the piano and sing at the same time. Not only has she been very successful in the world of music, but after graduating from high school early, she went to Columbia University .

L’Idea: What is your greatest fear?

Juliana: My greatest fear is not being able to accomplish my dreams and goals in life, and to disappoint the people I love.

L’Idea: You lived in Italy for most of your life. What is your favorite memory of that country?

Juliana: My favorite memories of Italy are the friendships that I have made there, the visits I made to my family, and the beautiful places I have been to.

L’Idea: Your mother is Sicilian, while your father is Puerto Rican. Being of both Spanish and Italian descent, do you ever feel pressured to fit into a certain set of standards? If so, how?

Juliana: I never felt pressured to fit into a certain set of standards. On the contrary, it has been fairly easy for me. I feel very proud of both my nationalities and I have never felt the need to make any preferences to either nationality.

L’Idea: What is one thing that most people do not know about you that you would like them to know?

Juliana: One thing that most people do not know about me is that I am terrified of any type of insect. If I see an insect, I cry and I am not able to kill them.

L’Idea: What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?

Juliana: The accomplishments that I am most proud of consist of coming to this country, getting used to a different culture and a different way of living, learning a new language, and meeting new people. While I was adjusting to life in a new country, I still strived to follow my dream of being a singer.

L’Idea: This year, Miss Idea pageant became a talent show and it displayed the ability and the flair of young Italian American girls. It has been an exciting and remarkable experience for all the contestants. How did participating in the Miss Idea contest change your life?

IDEA MARZO 2007