"Idol's" Syesha "ready to take on the world"

By Jill Serjeant

LOS ANGELES (Reuters Life!) - Ousted "American Idol" contestant Syesha Mercado said on Thursday she was "ready to take on the world" after reaching her goal of making it to the final three of the popular television talent show.

Mercado, 21, who was the last female singer in the competition, said she hoped for a career in movies, in musical theater and as a recording artist once the national "American Idol" summer tour is over.

"I am ready to take on the world. I am really excited about working," Mercado told a conference call with reporters.

"I want to do everything ... I want to make an album, I want to star in a film, I want to do Broadway. I want to open an organic restaurant. It just depends on what comes first."

Despite her departure from the show she said she did not feel defeated.

"I don't feel I've failed. I feel there are only great things to come," she added.

The Florida native was voted off the show by viewers on Wednesday, leaving rocker David Cook and tween favorite David Archuleta to battle it out next week for the "American Idol" final and a recording contract. The winner will be announced on May 21.

Mercado, who had risked elimination several times this season, said she expected to get cut after Tuesday night's performance got lukewarm reviews from the three judges.