Jasmine to Thia: Enjoy the moment

Before Thia Megia, there was Jasmine Trias.

Jasmine, who was 17 years old when she joined Season Three of the "American Idol" stood alongside Fantasia Barrino and Diana DeGarmo as the season's top three finalists, even besting the now Academy Award Winner Jennifer Hudson.

In the Philippines, her debut self-titled album, "Jasmine Trias" reached platinum. She also became an in demand endorser capturing the hearts of most Filipinos with her talent, charm and smile.

But after her short stay in the country, whatever happened to Jasmine Trias?

Yahoo! OMG! Philippines was able to contact the original "American Idol" "Filipino pride" via e-mail and she graciously shared exciting details about her life, career, her advice to Thia and plans of going back to the country.

OMG: How are you? What's keeping you busy nowadays?

Jasmine Trias: I'm doing great thank you! It's a really busy and exciting time right now.

I decided to make the move from Hawaii to the mainland US, so I'm now based in the 'Entertainment Capital of the World', Las Vegas.

I spent most of 2010 performing live on the Vegas "Strip" with the Society of Seven, but recently I've been traveling a lot for live shows all over the world. I'm currently working on a new live show with British singer / songwriter, Ben Stone (www.benstonelive.com). I've also been back in the studio recording brand new original music for my upcoming second album. I'm working with some amazing songwriters and producers, so I'm excited about the new sound, and can't wait to release it. On top of all that, I'm almost done with my Business degree, which I've been completing online for the past few years. This was something I always wanted to do. I'm hoping to branch out and develop new business projects outside of my music career, in other areas I have an interest in as well.

OMG: How did 'American Idol' change your life?

JT: "American Idol" completely changed my life. It allowed me to follow my passion for music and singing as a career, which is a dream come true. My life was pretty much mapped out when I auditioned for American Idol. I had been offered a college scholarship and was all set to follow a career as a Nurse. Then literally everything changed overnight! I've met some amazing people along the way, and I get to travel the world doing what I love. I couldn't ask for more. A lot of doors open as a result of the exposure an international TV show gives you, so it's something I'm thankful for everyday and never take for granted. I try to enjoy each and every experience to the fullest.

OMG: Thia Megia is doing well in AI. What advice can you give her?

JT: I'm really happy to see another Fil-Am doing well on American Idol! I take great pride in my Filipino heritage, and think there is some incredible Filipino vocal talent out there, which should be showcased. I think Thia has been doing great, and is handling the pressures of the show well. I can relate with how she must be feeling, having gone through the American Idol experience at a very similar age.

My memories of the show are kind of a blur as everything was happening so quickly. There were so many life changing moments and experiences, that it was hard to take it all in at such a young age.

The best advice I can give Thia would be to enjoy every moment, and really try to savor the experience. Of course, be focused and work hard, but try not to get too stressed out. Have fun! Other than that, I think song choice is always a key ingredient to anyone's success on the show. Thia has a beautiful vocal tone, so hopefully they can find songs that best showcase this for her, and give her the greatest possible chance in the competition. That said, there's so much talent in the Finals this year, that she should already be extremely proud of herself for reaching this stage of the competition, regardless of what happens.

OMG: When are you going to visit the Philippines again?

JT: I've spent the last few years performing live, mostly in Las Vegas, really honing my vocal ability, as well as developing my skills as an all around entertainer. I'm passionate about my music, and I feel like I've grown a lot as an Artist since my debut album. I'm now back in the recording studio working on my long awaited second album, taking the reins more in the creative process this time around, finding a sound that represents me and where I'm at in my life right now.

This is an exclusive really, as I'm yet to talk about this, but I do plan to return to the Philippines later this year to promote my new album with a number of live concerts. I'm really excited to spend more time back in the Philippines, and perform for my fans there again, especially showcasing my new songs.

OMG: What do you miss most about our country?

JT: First and foremost, I miss the people. I really do feel at home in the Philippines, and I love how welcome my fans made me feel there. I also love the beautiful remote beaches, which in my opinion, are some of the very best in the world. Coming from someone born in Hawaii, that is saying a lot! I have to say I miss the Filipino food too!

OMG: Sorry I have to ask this... How's your love life? :)

JT: Well . . . I'm not married yet. No kids yet. But I do have a boyfriend! :)

OMG: Message to your fans all over the world

JT: I'm thrilled to be making plans to return to the Philippines later this year. I have some exciting projects planned :) Thank you to all of my loyal fans around the world for your continued support. I love meeting you all at my live shows, and always try my best to continue to shine as your 'Filipino Pride'. I can't wait for you to hear the new songs off my upcoming second album. I promise it will have been worth the wait! Visit my Facebook fan page and follow me on twitter @jasminetrias for all the latest updates on my career including future live show dates, samples of new tracks from the upcoming album, prize giveaways, and more :)