Before you do anything...!

I found that it was important to do my research in my hopes to become a model. Here's some things you should do before anything else:

• Research agencies in your area. Take a look at their web pages. See their models and most important; make sure they are legitimate! There are so many scams out there that will ask you to pay for pictures and things that are not necessary or will ask you for too much information. You can check into places by going to the Better Business Bureau website. What I did was search them in google and look for reviews and forums about the place.

• Look at famous models so you can get some general knowledge on them and see how they model.

• Learn designers and photographers. Agencies and potential employers like to see you know what you're doing and what you're talking about!

• PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE! It is important to know your body and your face. Practice different emotions in the mirror and on camera. (A face might look awesome in the mirror but crazy in pictures). Try putting your camera on self timer or having a friend or family member take some shots.

• Practice not only your poses but your personality as well. You only get one chance at a first impression and it is important. For me this was difficult because I am somewhat of a reserved person when meeting new people. My friends have told me I come off "harsh" even though those that know me see me as a kind hearted goofy person. So practice introducing yourself and what your face looks like when your just listening. You might be nervous but you need to put those nerves aside and really let your personality shine!

• Work on hair and makeup. Looking like a model is half the battle. This might mean trading those sweats for a cute pair of jeans to run errands because you never know who you will meet. It is also obvious that when going to an agency or go see that you look the part. This will also come in handy for many jobs. Especially when you are starting out, there may be many jobs that will require you to do your own hair and makeup and you want to look your best.

• Think about what your goals are. If your 5'0, you're probably not going to be a runway model as they are usually 5'8 and up. However, there are many other areas of modeling such as beauty (face shots), commercial, catalogue, editorial, high fashion and more.

• Be prepared for everything. There may be people who say you are beautiful, which every woman is in their own right. But, there will be rejection. You have to keep trying and learning because different places are always looking for different looks and changing. Don't get discouraged if someone doesn't like you or says your body or face is wrong. Beauty comes in many variety. It is up to you to find your niche and work it.

• And the most important thing to remember is that the person you see in the mirror will make your success!