NEWARK, NJ — Newark got an inspiring visit from Ashley Cariño, the reigning Miss Universe Puerto Rico, when she made a trip to a local high school on Tuesday.

Cariño got a warm welcome at Science Park High School, where she talked to students about overcoming her personal struggles – and how she’s been overcoming them.

According to a statement from Mayor Ras Baraka’s office, here’s some background about Cariño’s climb to the top:

“Ms. Cariño was born in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, the eldest of five children. She grew up in Kissimmee, Florida, and battled Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as a child to study aerospace engineering at the University of Central Florida and become an educator for at-risk youth. She was crowned Miss Florida USA in 2021 and was second runner-up in that year’s Miss USA competition. She moved back to Puerto Rico and was crowned Miss Universe Puerto Rico 2022. She finished among the top five in the final competition, out of 83 candidates.”

During her visit to Science Park High School, Cariño found common ground with many students when she discussed life as the oldest of five siblings, and how she needed to assume leadership roles at an early age.

Cariño also spoke about discussed her unwillingness to be moved by fear or failure, and what it was like to enter beauty pageants.

“Miss Universe Puerto Rico mirrors how Newarkers always carry themselves,” city officials stated in a social media post. “Newark is proud to champion the Latin community and all of the accomplishments achieved. Our Latin community in Newark breathes success, innovation, leadership, fashion and beauty!”