American Idol
Syesha Mercado
Age: 21
Hometown: Sarasota, FL
Audition City: Miami
Voted Off: May 14

You really improved throughout the competition - it was kind of like you held back. Was that always your game plan?
Syesha: I am a hard worker and always rehearsing and trying to improve. At first I was in a shell, and that kind of separated me from everyone else. I felt I was never at my full potential because of the negative mindset I was in, so I focused on that and it harmed my performances. But as I got back on track and felt more comfortable onstage, that feeling of being overlooked subsided. I started enjoying myself more every week and trusted myself to let go.

In your opinion, what's special about having the two Davids in the finale?
Syesha: David Archuleta has that beautiful smile and a great connection with the younger audience. David Cook has a connection with the younger audience and the older, too — the women go crazy over him, as he is really charming. I feel like an older and younger sister to them both. I got closer to them and really have a brotherly-sisterly love for them. The competition could go any way, and I wish them both the best of luck.

What did you learn from your experience on American Idol?
Syesha: Where do I begin? I learned there is a fine line between overworking, just trusting in yourself and letting go, and letting it be the way it is. We worked so hard every week, to the point I couldn't enjoy myself, so I wasn't able to relax. But I learned how to — be it talking to someone close or reading a book. I learned how to deal with stress and how to deal with performing and enjoy what you are doing.

What are your plans after the tour is done, and any wedding plans in your future?
Syesha: I'm goal-oriented and want to do everything. I want to make an album, star in film, do Broadway and open an organic restaurant along with a homeless foundation. I have them planned out and will take whatever opportunity comes along. I am the type of person that lives in the now, and my fiancé is so supportive. We have a mutual understanding about everything, so when the time is right, we will. But right now, we are focused on career and what is the next move to make there.

You amazingly went from the bottom three throughout the show to top three. How did you deal with that roller coaster?
Syesha: Every week was new and I never packed my bags. They told us to, but I was like, "I'm not packing my bags — I don't want to go home yet." I think if you want something, it'll happen for you. I dealt with it by talking to my family a lot — they helped me stay strong. I just tried to stay positive and I became a lot stronger by being there.

Do you think the focus was on the guys this year, and did that make it hard over the weeks?
Syesha: I never focused on that because what everyone wants is going to be obvious in the end. It is what it is and whoever wins... that is who it is supposed to be. I am proud to have been the last girl standing and the honor to have this opportunity. I appreciate the fans and their support. I'm just so excited. I'm ready to take on the world — so ready! And to take on so many different things and be working.