Miss America 2008

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Kirsten Haglund is a Miss Michigan newcomer -- of sorts.

Haglund, who won the crown on her first try Saturday, is the granddaughter of the 1944 titleholder.

Her grandmother, Iora Hunt, was in the audience and watched a shocked and humble Haglund take her winning walk before a crowd of about 1,400 in the Frauenthal Theater. Haglund, 18, advanced to the state pageant after winning Miss Oakland County. She will take a break from her studies at University of Cincinnati's Conservatory of Music to serve as Miss Michigan for the year and compete at the 2008 Miss America Pageant.

"I'm shocked but so excited," Haglund said, in between hugs and kisses from fellow contestants. "I can't even believe it."

Haglund, of Farmington Hills, performed the operetta "Adele's Laughing Song" as her talent and wants to pursue a career on Broadway. She is the daughter of Iora and Valdor Haglund, and will promote the platform "Raising Awareness of Eating Disorders" during her reign as Miss Michigan.

The blonde, slim Haglund said she grew up watching the Miss America Pageant and attended various local and state ones in Michigan. She made the trip to Las Vegas in January to cheer on 2006 Miss Michigan Angela Corsi. That's also where she purchased the bright orange bikini with sparkly turquoise trim that earned her Thursday's preliminary swimsuit award. She had her sparkling evening gown special-made by the owners of Kray Chic, who also provide a competition gown for the winner.

Despite dancing and singing, Haglund isn't competitive, said her mother. That's why it surprised her when her daughter said she wanted to enter the Miss Oakland County Scholarship Pageant to earn money for college.

Saturday's finals opened with the announcement of the 10 finalists, who competed in swimwear, talent and evening wear before the top five finalists were selected. In a new judging format this year, the judges finished voting before each contestant was asked an on-stage question. However, they had the opportunity to rank the Top 5 after they answered.

Haglund was asked if she would rather work for Dr. Phil's or Oprah's talk show. Of course, Haglund said Oprah.

"She's a wonderful woman who has tremendous influence," she said. "She inspires so many people. I would love to be a part of that show."