MDC Member since July 2005
View Andrea’s Portfolio
Age: 23
Location: Bayonne, NJ - USA
Agency Contacts: Women of Italy, Bloom
How did you become interested in modeling?
I first became interested in modeling through my sister who told me about a model casting call she heard about on the radio. Being shy and a bit quiet, I really never gave it much thought. Being made fun of for being tall (5″11″), skinny, long and lanky contributed to me becoming an introvert. I was an honor student in school, getting “A’s” in subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Accounting I & II, Statistics and the list goes on. I actually felt insulted that tall people weren’t given credit for having a brain. The average person thought all we could do was play basketball or be a model. I was determined to be more than a pretty face, a long and lanky female whose only ability is basketball or modeling. But, the day I actually got on that runway, it hit me. This is where I belong. I am a model and I have intelligence. I did try basketball, was on a team, but after attending basketball camp all summer I realized, I wanted to save my legs for the runway. I was also told I played basketball like a “girl with a purse on my arm.” I was good, but not aggressive. I couldn’t afford to get hurt.
What agencies have you been in contact through MODELS.com?
I haven’t been in touch with any agencies lately because I am currently on tour with Ebony Fashion Fair. However, I met a scout online for America’s Next Top Model who thought I had everything it took to compete and win the competition. I was invited to a private casting with the casting director, but the tour was leaving Chicago and I couldn’t afford to miss the second show on a 180 city tour. I’ve been contacted in the past by Women of Italy, Bloom and a few other modeling agencies.
What was your experience with them?
My experience with the agencies that I reached out to and that reached out to me was very positive and encouraging. I am mostly interested in small boutique agencies that will put the time and energy into getting work for me. I don’t want to get lost in the larger agencies. The day I heard from Bloom Model Management, I had just left New York for Chicago to get ready for the 180 city Ebony Fashion Fair tour. I am very proud to say, this is the fourth tour I have done for Johnson Publishing Company. Yes, their models are usually larger than the industry wants, however, if you have the look and the talent, they will take smaller sizes as well. I am a size 2 and I am one of the feature models.
