Gainesville woman describes Miss America experience

GAINESVILLE - Miss Georgia, a Gainesville native, reflected Thursday publicly for the first time on her experience in the Miss America Pageant.

Amy Mulkey appeared on the Martha Zoller show.

"It was kind of a little girl's dream come true to be in Atlantic City and walk out on that stage. It's just overwhelming," Mulkey said.

"It's enormous, and there are so many people there supporting you and cheering you on. It was just fantastic. I had a great time."

Mulkey said contestants spent two and a half weeks in Atlantic City and enjoyed some down time on the beach and boardwalk.

Miss Colorado and Miss New York stayed in the same hotel.

As far as the actual pageant, Mulkey said when judges make the cuts in the show, she was nervous for herself and her competition.

"You've been working hard for this, and you hope it goes your way, but still excited even after the 15 are called, because there is going to be a new Miss America crowned and you're going to know her. You're just excited to find out who it is at that point," Mulkey said.

She began her duties as Miss Georgia Thursday and expects to make between 100 and 200 appearances during her reign.

Mulkey does plan to return to the Miss America Pageant but not as a contestant.

"I want to go back, just with no pressure, and just go for fun and go to all the parties," she said.