MONTPELIER — Cassie Sharp wants to study history and music in college, and after winning $1,200 in scholarships this weekend, she’s one step closer to her goal.

The 17-year-old Bear Lake High School senior was named Miss Bear Lake Valley during the pageant held in Montpelier on Aug. 17. Tiffany Harris took first attendant, Marissa Budge, 2nd, and Brynn Heslington, 3rd. Tylar Welker was also named Miss Congeniality during the event.

Sharp said Wednesday that she was surprised, but also excited to win the title.

“To be able to represent the community means a lot to me,” she said, adding that she was honored to be chosen.

Sharp received $1,000 for winning the title, and another $200 in the Interview category. She said the money will help her with college expenses and the dual-credit courses she’s planning to take this year.

This was the second time Sharp participated in the pageant, but the first time she won anything. She said she really enjoyed getting to know the other girls who were involved this year, and feels like she grew personally.

“I am a lot more confident in myself,” she said, adding that it was difficult to stand in front of the judges and share her thoughts on current events, various issues and her personal qualities. “(It was hard) putting myself out there.”

Still, she knows the skills she developed during the pageant will not only help her later in life, but also as she serves as the student body president at her school this year and during her reign as Miss Bear Lake Valley.

Sharp is looking forward to holding the title for the year, and said she has a meeting this week to learn more about her responsibilities.

“I’m really happy to have the opportunity and am really excited to represent the community ...,” she said.

Sharp is the daughter of Jared and Janalee Sharp. In her spare time, she enjoys playing the piano, reading, cooking and spending time with her family and friends.