Johnson said the couple practices about four hours a day and in their downtime they record video diaries detailing their thoughts and emotions concerning the competition.

"It gets a little boring sometimes," she said.

Johnson, 21, is excited about the Star Search experience, but is disappointed she will miss this year's Miss Utah festivities back home.

As for adjusting to life in California, Delpriore and Johnson said "Star Search" has accommodated them well. The organization provided separate apartments so they could comply with BYU's Honor Code.

"The people in Hollywood have had to adjust for us," Delpriore said.

While Delpriore has a passion for dancing, the 22-year-old has chosen to study English and business at BYU. The university junior said he spends most of his "Star Search" downtime visiting Los Angeles and some with his studies.

"I am doing enough that I'm not getting in trouble," he said.

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E-mail: jburke@desnews.com