Megan Travis had no idea she would be named Girl of the Year 2004 as she stood in the Performing Arts Center on May 6. As a Delta Kappa Gamma member began reading the accomplishments of the winner, Travis started to think she might have won.

“She started talking about qualities that I had,” Travis said. “My mind was saying, ‘That’s not me. That’s not me.'”

When Travis was revealed as Girl of the Year 2004, she dropped her plaque and rose on the floor. “I was shocked,” Travis said.

Travis said she thought she had done poorly in the interview for Girl of the Year. According to Travis, the winner is based on applicants’ GPA’s, ACT scores and the interview.

Several tables were set up that hopefuls answered questions at on subjects such as politics, career choices and morals. “One table had riddles on it,” Travis said. “They were pretty tough.”

Travis answered questions about former Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Roy Moore and a lottery. “I said I thought the 10 Commandments should be there,” Travis said. “We use quarters, nickels and dollars every day with ‘In God We Trust’ on them.”

Travis, who will graduate from Dallas County High School next week, plans on attending The University of South Alabama this fall where she will study physical therapy. Travis became interested in physical therapy after working with PT Plus and volunteering with Vaughan Regional Medical Center.

Travis assisted patients with exercise and ultrasounds. She also assisted burn victims. “I wanted to enter sports medicine, but physical therapy has a broader range,” Travis said. “There are more options.”

Over the summer Travis will prepare for college before moving into her dormitory in mid-August. She has several scholarships, including her $1,500 scholarship for being named Girl of the Year 2004, to pay for tuition and fees. “It’s exciting to think I’ll be living on my own,” Travis said.

As far as advice for future Girl of the Year applicants, Travis said participants should try their hardest. “Get involved and stay involved,” Travis said. “Be yourself.”