Age: 25

Waist: 28

Hips: 34

Bust: 34

Height: 5'6"

Weight: 125 lb

Hair Color: Brown

Eye Color: Hazel

Tell us about yourself (where are you from, age, whatever you want to add) 

My name is Christy. I am 25 years old and from Jacksonville, Florida. I have been acting, singing, dancing and modeling since I was about 6 years old. I am an office manager for a local private security firm in Jacksonville and when I am not working or studying my butt off for my bachelor's degree, I can be found in the yoga studio, local gym, or behind my computer playing video games. I am an admin for a local girl gamer group in Jacksonville called Babes Games and Geeks. I love expressing myself in a variety of creative platforms! 

Tell us about your modeling experience. 

I have done commercial/lifestyle modeling since I was about 10. Growing up, my training was geared toward acting and singing, but I always found myself at modeling cattle calls. I can't get enough of the industry. More recently, I have done trade show modeling and demo work for a variety of agencies, products, and conventions; my favorite being Premiere Orlando where I got to be a demo model for L'anza Healing Haircare and the Sassoon Academy!

What is your biggest dream? 

At 25, I have gone back and forth as to what exactly my 'dream' is. I have wanted to be a teacher, a nurse, a hotel manager, and of course, a performer. What I now realize is my dream, at its root, is simply to make a living doing what I love, and what I love is performing and collaborating with artists. As long as I make enough of a living to have a farm on a hillside with a few goats one day, I will be happy.

What does it mean to be your own kind of beautiful? 

Being your own kind of beautiful means being unabashedly authentic every single day. In these days of social media overload, there is always constant pressure to be 'like' someone else, or to follow trends. I think the most beautiful thing a person can do is to own their story and their features fully and without shame. Let your freak flag fly and be you!

How would you describe your fashion style?

 Versatile! I wear my outfits like a mood ring. Fashion is a reflection of my inner world, and I can be found in anything from flowing bohemian dresses one day, to a slick black power suit the next. I live at the thrift store and love the thrill of finding unique pieces on a budget.

Who or what inspires you? 

My family inspires me every day. I am very close with my parents and my two sisters and look to them for inspiration and guidance constantly. I am inspired by my mom's strong will and grace, my dad's work ethic and sense of balance, and both of my sister's sense of style and expression.

What is your advice to someone who is just getting started with modeling? 

Don't be afraid to dive in! Invest in your portfolio and comp cards and find agencies who you can bond with on a personal level that will best represent you. Be raw and authentic in your interviews and portfolio.  Don't try and 'be a model,' BE yourself!

Describe some obstacles you have overcome in your life and how that has changed or shaped you. 

In middle and high school I had severe body dysmorphia which got the best of me for a few years. I gave into an eating disorder that nearly destroyed my sense of self. I am happy to say I have recovered and can look back on those years as one very hard lesson to learn. I am no longer embarrassed about my past, my mistakes, or my story. I will always use my platform to be honest with others and be a part of what many would consider difficult discussions based on my experiences. 

What makes you beautiful/handsome? 

The same thing that makes everyone I know and love beautiful - authenticity, courage, and kindness. I have a sense of moral obligation to show kindness to those around me, no matter the situation. 

What would you say to another girl/guy your age who is struggling with their confidence? 

Write about it, then be about it. Confidence is not something that 'happens' to you one day; confidence is built with experience, self-love, and reflection. Keep a journal of things you're grateful for, things that you are proud of, and things that you aspire to be. If you are willing to put the daily work in, your confidence will blossom!