There is something powerful about stepping into a gown. Not because of the sparkle or the silhouette, but because of the intention behind it. A gown represents preparation, confidence, and the decision to show up as the best version of yourself. This is exactly why professionalism is one of the most essential life skills we can teach. Whether we are entering a classroom, a workplace, or a community space, our first impression speaks long before we do. It tells the world who w

I love taking a moment to highlight a financial skill that truly empowers people of all ages—because confidence with money is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. Today, I want to talk about one simple habit that can completely transform your financial mindset: Know Where Your Money Is Going. It sounds obvious, but many of us move through our week tapping cards, placing online orders, grabbing coffee, paying bills, and rarely pausing to check in with where our dol

When people ask me what inspired Leading a Lifetime of Life Skills , I always smile because my “why” didn’t start with a big idea. It started with real life. I learned life skills from the ground up. In middle school, I remember standing in my Family and Consumer Sciences classroom learning how to make a stromboli from scratch. At the time, it just felt like a fun project, but looking back, that moment planted a seed. It showed me how capable I could be when I learned somethi

By Hope Kiehl Miss Central Jersey Coastline 2026 | Family and Consumer Science Educator If you ask my students what class they’re in, they’ll tell you “life.”And honestly — that’s exactly right. As a Family and Consumer Science (FCS) educator, I have the privilege of teaching lessons that go far beyond textbooks and tests. My students learn to manage their money, cook nutritious meals, communicate effectively, and prepare for the real world. But not every school offers this k

Between teaching, volunteering, and preparing for the next big event, it can be easy to let healthy eating fall to the bottom of your to-do list. That’s where meal prepping  comes in! As part of my Community Service Initiative, Leading a Lifetime of Life Skills , I love sharing practical ways people can make small, sustainable changes that strengthen everyday life — and learning to prep nutritious meals is one of the simplest, most powerful life skills you can master. By dedi

Happy Monday, everyone! 🌞 A new week means a new opportunity to grow, learn, and build habits that bring us closer to our goals. Through my Community Service Initiative, Leading a Lifetime of Life Skills , I’ve seen how small, practical choices can make a big difference in living confidently and purposefully. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or busy professional, taking time to strengthen your life skills can transform your mindset and your Monday! Here are a few simple wa

As part of my Community Service Initiative, Leading a Lifetime of Life Skills , I focus on teaching practical tools that help people...

This past year has been one of the busiest of my life—teaching full-time, finishing my master’s degree, preparing for pageants, and...

In Family and Consumer Sciences, we talk a lot about the skills that help us lead healthy, fulfilling lives. One of the most...

As the summer winds down and the new school year approaches, it's time to start thinking about how to set yourself up for success. A...

Hello, beautiful people! I am thrilled to share some thoughts on a topic that affects all of us at some point: overthinking. We've all...

Cooking can be a delightful and creative endeavor, but nothing throws a wrench in the process like encountering confusing or ambiguous...

Introduction: Greetings, fellow advocates and fashion enthusiasts! I've come to understand that style isn't just about looking good—it's...

Resilience is more than just bouncing back from setbacks; it's about facing adversity with strength, adaptability, and perseverance. In...

Hey, baking enthusiasts! I'm all about precision, whether it's on stage or in the kitchen. Today, let's talk about a crucial ingredient...

As Miss New Jersey Volunteer, I am deeply committed to advocating for causes that make a tangible difference in people's lives. This...

I'm all about serving our communities with passion and dedication. And guess what? Tax season is another opportunity to contribute,...

As Miss New Jersey Volunteer, I understand the significance of interviews in shaping one's journey towards personal and professional...

Hey there, fellow sewing enthusiasts! Today, I'm thrilled to share my passion for sewing with you. Whether you're a complete novice or...

Hey there, fabulous souls! As a volunteer, I'm passionate about empowering individuals to make informed choices that lead to happiness,...