"I was in complete and total shock and was shaking for about 10 minutes after being crowned," said Atkins, 16, of Piru, who was crowned with the state title in late November at the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles.
"I had achieved one of the greatest accomplishments of my life so far, becoming Miss California Teen USA," the Fillmore High School junior said in an interview last week. "There are really no words to describe the rush I felt that night. I can say that I honestly could not be more grateful for receiving this great title."
Atkins was eligible to run for the state title after she was crowned Miss Ventura County Teen on June 9.
As a result of winning the state title, Atkins' regional runner-up, Jazmyn Latimer of Oxnard, becomes the new Miss Ventura County Teen.
When Latimer heard the news by phone, she was ecstatic.
"I was so surprised and excited that I could barely contain myself," recalled the 16-year-old senior at Oxnard High School. "The second I hung up the phone, I called all my friends and family, and we jumped and screamed together."
Latimer entered the pageant after learning some of her friends participated in 2006.
"It sounded like a great experience that I could really benefit from," she said.
"Other girls should consider entering the pageant, because it teaches you many skills that could help you in school, work and life in general," she said. "Also, you get to meet a lot of sweet girls that you have a lot in common with."
To prepare for the state competition, Atkins worked with her director, Toay Foster-Ortiz, former Miss Oxnard Teen USA, Miss Ventura County Teen and Miss California USA 1994.
"We worked on interview skills, walking gracefully, promoting her platform and staying focused on her goals," said Foster-Ortiz, executive director of Miss Ventura County pageants, Miss Southern California pageants and Miss Regional Coastal Cities pageants.
"Now Taylor will go on to compete at the Miss Teen USA pageant," Foster-Ortiz said. "Just think, she started at a local pageant, Miss Ventura County Teen USA. Now she will be going to movie premieres and having photo shoots, and she now has an acting agent."
Atkins believes her attitude, poise and determination gave her an edge.
"Having just the right amount of confidence mixed with hope, faith and everlasting persistence called for a result of success," Atkins said.
Winning the title of Miss California Teen USA is an honor with perks she never expected, Atkins said.
"The opportunities I have been given have led to many more open doors for the future, and the honor that I feel at this time cannot compare to anything else."
Atkins' next step is to compete in the Miss Teen USA pageant, scheduled for August, when she will compete against 39 other delegates.
"I look forward to continuing my volunteer work at Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital and attending many events that range from speaking at our schools to red carpet events held throughout the state of California," she said.
With this win, Atkins hopes to inspire young teens to follow their dreams and never give up.
"I hope that others will see how determination, hard work and the act of faith really do pay off in the end," Atkins said. "As Miss California Teen USA 2008, I know I will be the best role model possible for all younger generations."