[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/Gluchowski_Ashley.jpg” caption=”Graduate student Ashley Gluchowski is competing in the Miss Canada Globe competition this summer. Photo courtesy of Ashley Gluchowski.”]Ashley Gluchowski is a model student — literally. After being crowned Miss Southern Ontario 2008 last month, the master's student in pharmacology and physiology will compete for the title of Miss Canada Globe in August.

“I have been inspired to compete in this pageant by how fortunate I am to attend this wonderful university and study here,” says Gluchowski. “I feel that it is my time to start giving back to those who need it.”

Gluchowski isn't just another pretty face. When she isn't preparing for the pageant, she is studying neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and comparing them with those of asthmatics to see how their cells differ in the hopes of developing better treatments.

The Miss Canada Globe competition will be her first pageant. She will have a pageant trainer to help her prepare for the crucial interview and talent portions of the competition.

“I'm not nervous,” says Gluchowski. “I feel more excited than any other emotion. I want to represent southern Ontario the best I can.”

If she wins the title of Miss Canada Globe, Gluchowski says she would look forward to working with charities and “putting smiles on so many faces.”

She needs to raise $2,500 to cover the entrance fee for the pageant. If you are interested in making a financial contribution or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Gluchowski at ashleyglu@hotmail.com. The pageant airs on Aug. 24 on TLN.