Nikki Giovanni famously said, "I really don't think life is about the I-could-have-been’s. Life is only about the I-tried-to-do’s. I don't mind the failure but I can't imagine that I'd forgive myself if I didn't try." When it was announced on October 16, 2011, that Rebecca Hodge had been crowned the newest Miss Iowa USA 2012, she knew that her lifelong approach toward life was worth every up and down.

Rebecca grew up on a small farm outside of Iowa City where her family raised horses, chickens, and honeybees. The strong work ethic that was instilled in her at a young age has continued to radiate throughout her life. She grew up with 3 brothers and a sister who were each expected to do their fair share around the house and farm, as well as maintain a job of their own. Describing her family and childhood has always been a source of pride as Rebecca feels it built an extremely strong foundation for the rest of her life.

Rebecca began gymnastics at the age of 2, and 11 years later became a state champion. Because gymnastics had been such a large part of her life for so long, it was a difficult decision to end her gymnastics career to pursue yet another dream, becoming a dancer. She went out on a limb when, as a freshman, she tried out for her high school varsity dance team. She not only made the team, but was a 4-year member and went on to become captain her senior year. Yet another shift in dreams came when Rebecca had to decide what she wanted to do with her dance career after high school. After much deliberation, she decided that cheerleading was what most appealed to her as a college sport. She would be able to combine her gymnastics and dance talents, as well as desire to show her school and state spirit. With no prior cheerleading experience this was another risk Rebecca took that paid off. She has now been a member of the University of Iowa cheerleading squad for 2 years.

The most recent dream that Rebecca pursued and achieved was that of becoming Miss Iowa USA 2012. With no pageant experience she figured she was a long-shot at best. However, she knew that if she did not try she would always wonder "what if?” By staying true to herself and maintaining her enthusiastic personality, another dream came true. Her life was forever changed when she was crowned Miss Iowa USA.

Rebecca Hodge is currently a senior in the University of Iowa College of Education. She is an Elementary Education major and plans to specialize in Reading Literacy. Being a positive role model in childrens' lives is very important to Rebecca, and she knows that being Miss Iowa will only further enhance that image for her. In her spare time, Rebecca can be found working as an elementary school tutor, or volunteering for numerous charities, including the Make a Wish Foundation and the Ronald McDonald House. The charities are affiliated with the University of Iowa Children's Hospital, which became especially important to her after her niece was born with a birth defect.

Another of Rebecca's extracurricular activities includes her job as a part-time waitress. She also enjoys traveling, whether it be to Europe for an educational opportunity, California to visit her sister, or anywhere a Hawkeye football game takes her. She enjoys performing, the outdoors, fitness, and every child she has ever met! Rebecca looks forward to proudly representing her home state of Iowa in the Miss USA 2012 competition. There will be no "I-could-have-beens" or "I-tried-to-dos" as she pursues her next ambitious dream.

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