Maxim Mock Cover Girl Interview with Mary Sage Nguyen
In order for me to prepare for my Maxim Covergirl Interview. I am giving myself a mock interview. Start reading below to see my answers to potential questions.
1. Tell us about yourself and what led you to this competition.
I’m Mary, a passionate and driven individual who loves expressing herself through creativity, confidence, and connection. I’ve always been inspired by strong, empowered women who aren’t afraid to stand out and own who they are—something Maxim has always celebrated. I entered this competition because I see it as more than just a modeling opportunity; it’s a platform to share my story, inspire others, and challenge myself to grow. I want to show that beauty isn’t just about looks—it’s about strength, individuality, and using your voice to uplift others.
2. What are some of your most significant life experiences and how have they shaped you?
One of the most significant experiences that shaped me was losing my mom to cancer when I was 19. That kind of loss forces you to grow up quickly, and it taught me resilience, independence, and the importance of living with purpose. My mom was one of my biggest inspirations, and I carry her strength with me every day. Since then, I’ve worked hard to build a life that honors her—I’ve earned all of my insurance licenses, stepped into underwriting, and passed 10 observations for both personal and commercial lines. I’m also proud to be an author of both novels and children’s books. My first novel is dedicated to my mom, as a tribute to the love, strength, and wisdom she gave me. Writing has allowed me to connect with others and tell meaningful stories that empower and inspire. All of these experiences have shaped me into a woman who leads with heart, embraces challenges, and never forgets where she came from.
3. What do you want the judge to know about you?
I want the judges to know that I’m not just here for a title — I’m here to represent strength, purpose, and passion. After losing my mom to cancer at 19, I made it my mission to live life fully and fearlessly. I’ve built a career in insurance, earned multiple licenses, passed 10 underwriting observations, and became a published author — including a novel dedicated to my mom. If I win, I plan to use part of the prize to finally pursue a dream I’ve had since middle school: climbing Mount Denali and eventually Everest. It’s more than just a physical challenge — it’s symbolic of everything I’ve overcome. I also plan to donate to cancer research in honor of my mom. This opportunity isn’t just about me — it’s about using my voice, my platform, and my story to inspire and give back.
4. What are your biggest passions and why are they important to you?
Some of my biggest passions are writing, staying connected to my community, and supporting the things I love. I really enjoy being a Google Local Guide — it may seem small, but I think it’s important for people to have honest reviews so they know what to expect and which businesses truly deserve support. I also love writing, whether it’s novels, children’s books, or sharing stories that connect with people on a deeper level. It’s one of the most powerful ways to express yourself and inspire others. And of course, I love keeping up with my local sports teams Dallas Mavericks, and Texas Rangers. They bring people together and reminds me how powerful community pride can be. All of these things matter to me because they’re rooted in connection, truth, and expression — which are values I try to live by every day.
5. What are your goals and dreams for the future?
My goals and dreams for the future start with winning the Maxim Covergirl competition and proudly representing the brand. I’d love to be featured in the magazine and support Maxim by promoting the magazine on social media — because when I believe in something, I go all in. I also dream of stepping into the entertainment world, even if it’s just starting as an extra in a movie — I’ve always loved the energy of storytelling, whether it’s through writing or film. Beyond that, I want to keep chasing bold experiences, like climbing Mount Denali and Everest, and using every platform I have to inspire others to dream big and live fearlessly.
6. How do you plan to use your platform if you win?
If I win, I plan to use this platform to inspire others to chase their dreams fearlessly, no matter what life throws at them. I want to show that beauty and strength come from within — from resilience, purpose, and authenticity. Part of my journey includes climbing Mount Denali and eventually Everest, a dream I’ve had since middle school, and I hope to document that adventure to motivate others to push past their own limits. I also plan to donate a portion of the winnings to cancer research in honor of my mom, who I lost at 19 — she’s the reason I live boldly and with heart. And as an author, I’ll continue using my voice through storytelling to uplift others, support women, and encourage people to own their narrative. This isn’t just about a cover — it’s about creating real impact
7. Why are you interested in being a Maxim cover girl?
I’ve been interested in being a Maxim Cover Girl ever since I found a copy of Maxim Magazine in my brother’s room back in the ’90s — I was instantly hooked. I’ve always loved the bold confidence Maxim represents, and the Hot 100 list has been something I’ve looked forward to every year. It celebrates beauty, strength, and individuality in a way that really resonated with me. My favorite cover girl is Ashley Tisdale — seeing someone who was both fierce and relatable on the cover really inspired me. Being part of that legacy would be a dream come true, and a way to show that confidence and inner strength are what truly make a woman stand out
6. What does Maxim mean to me?
To me, Maxim is all about bold confidence, fierce beauty, and celebrating women who own every part of who they are. It’s sexy, it’s stylish, and it doesn’t take itself too seriously — which I love! Maxim has always had that cool factor — from the iconic covers to the Hot 100 list — it’s where fun, power, and personality all come together. Being part of that world feels like stepping into a spotlight that says, ‘This is me — and I’m not afraid to shine.
7. What makes me different from the other contestants?
What makes me different from other contestants is the mix of grit, heart, and drive I bring to everything I do. I’ve faced real-life challenges — like losing my mom to cancer at 19 — and instead of letting it break me, I used it as fuel to build a meaningful life. I’ve earned my insurance licenses, stepped into underwriting, become a published author of novels and children’s books, and I’m even working toward a lifelong dream of climbing Mount Denali and Everest. I’m also a proud Google Local Guide and a huge supporter of my local sports teams — so I stay grounded, curious, and connected to my community. I’m not here just to look the part — I’m here to inspire, give back, and show that strong, smart, and driven is the new sexy.
8. What is a unique talent or skill that you want to share?
My unique talent is storytelling — whether it’s through writing novels, children’s books, or even detailed Google reviews as a Local Guide! I have a natural ability to connect with people through words, to turn life’s experiences into something meaningful and inspiring. One of my proudest moments was dedicating my first novel to my mom, who I lost to cancer — it was my way of honoring her strength and sharing mine. But my storytelling doesn’t stop on the page. I also have a deep love for adventure, and I’m currently working toward a lifelong dream of climbing Mount Denali and eventually Everest. That drive — to reach new heights both literally and creatively — is what sets me apart.
In a world full of filters and highlight reels, I bring truth, depth, and heart — one story, one summit at a time.
