You're dressed to the nines. You're vying to become an icon of beauty and poise. The cameras are rolling and millions of people are waiting to hear your answer to this question about income inequality:
"A recent report shows that in 40 percent of American families with children, women are the primary earners yet they continue to earn less than men. What does this say about society?"
Alas, when her big moment came during the 2013 Miss USA beauty pageant on Sunday night, Miss Utah USA Marissa Powell choked and gave a truly incoherent answer (see video above).
You can tell from Powell's face that she knew she blew it. But the denizens of the Internet were not about to let such a fantastic flub pass without comment.
Deadspin's Timothy Burke was particularly appalled by Powell's answer, and quoted the 1995 film "Billy Madison" to show his disdain:
"What you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul."
Other pageant viewers were also taken aback by her response.
Miss Utah does make a good case for education reform in America.
— Chris Forewit (@forewit) June 17, 2013
Miss Utah: "We need to figure out how to create education better". We've found the poster child for this. #MissUSA
— CaptainTouchback (@CaptTouchback) June 17, 2013
Hey, Miss South "Maps" Carolina! You're finally off the hook. Send the thank you card to Miss Utah! #missusa
— Ryan (@RyanWoodDFW) June 17, 2013
I agree with Miss Utah that we should create education better. Haters. http://t.co/LHXCKvSX2c
— Bruce Arthur (@bruce_arthur) June 17, 2013
Powell is an actress, model and singer who has performed the national anthem in front of thousands of people. Alas, answering one question proved to be too much for her.