Abi Carter Reveals Plans After American Idol Win and Reflects on the 'Most Emotional Day of My Life'

Abi Carter is relishing the moment.

On Sunday, May 19, Carter was named the season 22 American Idol. After the show, PEOPLE caught up with Carter in a group interview to reflect on her emotions and discuss what's next for the singer-songwriter.

"I can't even express how amazing that was," 21-year-old Carter, who dropped to the ground in tears after her name was announced, says.

Reflecting on what prompted the genuine reaction, Carter says she's never more "in tune" with her emotions than being on the singing competition show.

"To be honest, they wouldn't have gotten a better reaction," Carter says. "My default is just to cry, but I hope that people know that it really is genuine. I think this was the most emotional day of my life, and yet I feel so numb. It's so interesting."

After the whirlwind season, Carter looks forward to some R&R.

"I'm thinking about going home, taking a shower, maybe watching Friends. That's going to help me sleep, and then get ready to fly to New York in the morning," says Carter, who will appear on LIVE with Kelly and Mark on Tuesday.

During the show, Carter took the stage for a myriad of solo and group performances, one of which was to sing her newly released single "This Isn't Over."

A highlight of the night, however, was when host Ryan Seacrest surprised Carter with a special message from Billie Eilish. (Carter auditioned on the show with a cover of Eilish's "What Was I Made For?")

"I should have been eliminated right then and there. I was like, 'I win. I win in life. I win.' That was my favorite," she says.

Up next, Carter is eager to get back in the studio to work toward her music career.

"I want to start releasing songs ASAP. I've been writing for so long now and I can't wait to put something out in the world that I so fully believe in," she says.

Carter adds, "Not that the other ones that I've put out have not because they do, but I think it'll be just a little bit different and I'm really excited for it."