For the first time, an Asian American took the crown as Miss Minnesota USA. This is a surprising transition from her parents’ humble beginnings, the StarTribune reports.

According to the article, Nitaya Panemalaythong‘s parents escaped the Laotian Civil War, eventually settling in Minnesota. This was Panemalaythong’s first beauty competition and her last eligible year to participate due to age (she’s 26). She says she entered for the scholarship money, which amounts to some $45,000, but has since been contacted by the Lao embassy in Washington, D.C., for an appearance.

Panemalaythong now has the opportunity to compete in the Miss America Pageant.

“Many doors are opening,” she told the StarTribune. “I want to make the most out of everything.”

Photo: Miss Minnesota USA 2012

Tags: Lao, Laotian Civil War, Miss America, Miss Minnesota, Nitaya Panemalaythong