Age: 18

Measurements

Waist: 24

Hips: 34

Bust: 34

Height: 5’6”

Weight: 110 lb

Hair/Eye Color: brown/hazel

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

I am from a very small town in south-western Virginia, called Woodlawn. Growing up there, I had no experience around modeling, but watching it on television and seeing it on social media, I always aspired to be one. I am 18 and a junior at University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. I’m majoring in pre-professional exercise science, and cannot wait for my future career in the medical field.

Tell us about your modeling experience.

I actually have no prior modeling experience. Where I grew up, there were no agencies. I went to a few in different states and cities, but they all ended up being scams trying to take money from hopeful little girls. I was a senior representative for a photographer in high school, and “modeled” for some other small photographers building their portfolios. I am excited to enter the industry. 

What is your biggest dream?

My biggest dream is to become a surgeon. I’m currently a pre-med student and I am loving every moment of it.

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

Being my own kind of beautiful was a hard journey for me. I was a competitor junior Olympic gymnast from the ages of 3-14 years old. I always was the one that was “too muscular” or “too skinny” or “too big” growing up. Being very aware of your body from a young age was a difficult experience for my confidence. I developed an eating disorder in high school and now that I have been recovered for 2 years. Being my own kind of beautiful is just being me and accepting myself for who I am.

How would you describe your fashion style?

My style is comfortable. I’m mostly in leggings or sweatpants and hoodies. As a college student, you just want to be comfy in whatever you’re wearing.

Who or what inspires you?

The person that inspires me the most in my mother. She raised me to show me how to be a strong and independent woman. She never let up and was always pushing me for own good, whether that be academically, in sports, or in any dream that I had. I owe my success to her.

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

As someone who is just getting into it myself, I can’t give much advice. But my past endeavors in modeling have been negative to say the least. I would advise people, especially minors, to be careful. Do your research, and make sure the agency is accredited. 

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

I was a competitive gymnast for 11 years of my life. It destroyed me physically and mentally. I had 3 knee surgeries by the age of 15. Being in a body that you wish was different takes an extreme toll on you. There were things other kids could do that I wish I could do. This changed me for the better. It made me realize that you don’t have to be like everybody else. It’s okay to be different.

What makes you beautiful/handsome?

I think that my mind is what makes me beautiful. I am strong and I am smart, and that is something that will never change like my physical appear might.

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

Being different is okay. Not being perfect is okay. Being too small or too big or too short or too tall, is all okay. The only thing you should be is yourself.