Miss Ind. gearing up for Miss America

West Lafayette, Ind. (WLFI) - The schedule book is filling up for Lafayette's own Miss Indiana 2009.

23-year-old Nicole Pollard, born and raised in Lafayette, is preparing for Miss America.

The Jefferson High School graduate was crowned Miss Indiana on June 27 in Zionsville.

Pollard said she plans to sing the same talent song and must be healthy and in good shape all around.

Pollard's platform was on the awareness and prevention of eating disorders.

Since she has worn the crown as Miss Indiana, she said her schedule has been full.

"I've had a photo shoot and a meeting with the state board to go over judges comments, to talk about my year and the preparations for Miss America. We've also done quite a bit of talking about how to promote my own platform and then the national platform of Children's Miracle Network, so it's been busy so far," said Pollard.

Pollard said her competition gown is being sponsored by Miss Priss in Lexington Kentucky.

Pollard wants to leave a message to young girls who aspire to also wear a crown.

"The better decisions you make right now, the better your life is going to turn out," said Pollard.

Pollard said she has won about $30,000 worth of scholarships in the Miss America program.

Pollard has a degree in music education from Indiana University.