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Late last year, the twenty-eight finalists for the 2024 Rose Court posed for a group photo on the front steps of Tournament House. Among them were Trinity Dela Cruz (second row, far right) and Emmerson Tucker (top row upper left), who ultimately both became members of the Rose Court. [Tournament of Roses photo]
As young women across Pasadena prepare for the first round of Rose Court interviews this weekend, 2024 Rose Court members Trinity Dela Cruz and Emmerson Tucker spoke to Pasadena Now about how those interviews changed their lives.
Their insights offer a glimpse into the personal growth and leadership development awaiting this year’s Rose Parade Rose Court applicants.
The initial interviews are scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 7, from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. at Tournament House, 391 S. Orange Grove Blvd., and mark the beginning of a month-long selection process.
The process not only results in selecting these official ambassadors for the Rose Parade but also bestows participants with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth.
“With all the training and all of the experiences that the court has given me, I have found more confidence in myself and more assurance,” said Dela Cruz, a 2024 Rose Court member and former drum major at John Marshall Fundamental High School, who is now heading to UCLA.
The Rose Court program’s impact extends beyond the parade, fostering leadership, confidence, and community engagement among participants.
Tucker, a senior at Blair High School aspiring to a medical career, pointed to the importance of authenticity during the selection process.
“Don’t expect yourself to do great,” she cautioned, knowing firsthand. “You are going to come out feeling unsure, but be confident in who you are. Be yourself and be the brightest version of you can be.”
“Show off your personality,” she counseled.
Both alumnae stressed how the experience enhanced their public speaking abilities, networking skills, and time management, proving beneficial in various aspects of their lives.
Dela Cruz noted the program’s positive impact on her college auditions, while Tucker highlighted its advantages in job interviews and social situations.
The Rose Court selection process involves multiple rounds of interviews, with flexible time slots for applicants, narrowing down from initial applicants to seven final members. Candidates are evaluated on public speaking ability, leadership, academic achievement, and community involvement, reflecting the program’s comprehensive approach to personal development.
Benefits for selected members include a $7,500 educational scholarship, extensive public speaking experience, and numerous community involvement opportunities.
Dela Cruz’s journey with the Rose Court began early, inspired by representation.
“I decided in third grade right then and there that it was my dream and goal to be a part of the Rose Court,” she recalled, citing Madison Triplett, the first PUSD queen, as her inspiration.
Similarly, Tucker found motivation in seeing diverse representation within the Court.
“When I saw a Queen of color, I realized that that’s something that I could do,” she said.
Both alumnae shared memorable experiences.
Dela Cruz recalled one elementary school visit as particularly impactful, allowing her to connect with her roots and inspire younger students. Tucker reminisced about the announcement day and the parade itself as standout moments, noting the genuine connections formed with fellow court members.
As the new round of tryouts begins, these alumnae’s experiences and their stories highlight how the program, a long-standing tradition in the Rose Parade and Pasadena community, continues to shape young women’s lives, encouraging potential applicants to embrace the opportunity for growth and community engagement.
Applications for the Rose Court may be accessed here:
https://roseparaderosecourt.com/
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