Chelsea Cooley, Miss North Carolina Teen USA 2000, was chosen Miss Universe USA at the 54th annual pageant on April, the 11, and will represent her country at the Miss Universe contest in Bangkok this May.

New Miss USA is 21-year old brunette, who almost cried when she heard her name came first in the winners list,  was crowned by last years winner Shandi Finnessey at the Hippodrome Theatre in Baltimore, where the participants engaged in competition in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and interview.

During the last stage, contestants had to answer questions written by their rivals. Chelsea Cooley was asked what person she emulated herself after and the beauty revealed her idol: "I guess it would be Oprah. She has a passion for life. She loves what she does, and she works so hard to try to achieve everything in her life. ... I try to emulate myself after that."

Now Miss USA, who also received second place in last year's Miss Division, is currently studying fashion marketing at the Art Institute of Charlotte.