Olivia Culpo became Miss USA 2012 after representing her home state of Rhode Island. Throughout the competition Olivia had on a charismatic smile and graceful but outgoing personality, which made her stand out amongst other contestants. A Cellist and sophomore at Boston University, Olivia described herself to be a nerd and aspires to be like Hollywood icon Audrey Hepburn, sharing their commonality for volunteer work.

Olivia had her striking dark brown hair flowing throughout the competition showing the world she has the making of something special. Culpo wore a lilac bikini showing her sculptured body, but more importantly during the evening gown competition she showed her elegant and beautiful side, strutting in graciously in a fuchsia gown although more modest than other competitors who wore more revealing gowns with high neck, at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip.

During the question and answer stage Olivia was asked "Would you feel it would be fair that a transgender woman wins the Miss USA title over a natural-born woman? by celebrity judge Rob kardashian in regards to transgender contestant Jenna Talackova. Olivia responded "many people out there who have a need to change for a happier life, I do accept that because I believe it's a free country."

Amongst the top five contestants first runner up was Nana Meriwether of Maryland, Second runner-up Audrey Bolte of Ohio, third runner-up Jade Kelsall of Nevada and Jasmyn Wilkins of Georgia as the fourth runner-up.  

When the long awaited results came in Olivia became the new Miss USA "I was just so surprised, so shocked, so honored to be there," said Culpo.