Every year, thousands of girls across the country participate within the Miss America Organization, a scholarship program for young women. As the leading scholarship provider for young women across the country, the Miss America Organization gives young women the chance to pursue their academic, philanthropic and personal goals. The 42nd annual Miss University of Alabama Pageant will be held this Saturday, February 20.

Each contestant who participates in one of these scholarship programs, better known as pageants, is required to have a community service project, also known as a platform. The contestant's platform is typically a cause she feels very strongly about and advocates for. Platforms range in topic from childhood obesity prevention, domestic abuse, breast cancer awareness, to safe Internet surfing, bullying prevention and sexual assault awareness.

Image Source: missuapageant.ua.com

Additionally, each contestant must raise a certain amount of money for Children's Miracle Network, the Miss America Organization's partner charity, before competing in a local or state level program.

Each scholarship program consists of five phases: a ten-minute private interview with a panel of five judges, talent, swimsuit, evening gown and onstage question. The young women competing are active in their communities, alongside being passionate about service, scholarship, style and success -- the four "points" of the Miss America crown.

The 42nd annual Miss UA competition will be held at the Bama Theater at 7 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $10 (student) or $15 (general admission) with special offers for seniors and children. 12 University of Alabama students will be vying for the title of Miss UA, so come out Saturday night and show your support!