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Interview with
Megan Colley       Megan Colley's Portfolio

All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or reproduction of coyrighted materials is strictly prohibited. Why did you want to become a model?
I wanted to become a model because I want to set a new standard for beauty. Our society has become so obsessed with weight and models have evolved into actual walking hangers. I want to be a role model to young girls and prove to the industry that you can succeed and be beautiful without starving yourself. I want to teach people to embrace themselves.

How did you get started in modeling?
I actually started out wanting to be a singer or an actress. During the process of pursuing those goals and going to college, I was asked by a local agency to come in

How has your life changed after you got involved?
I have definitely learned a lot since I came into this industry. I have become a stronger woman and I have become far more determined. Modeling has shown me that when you want something in life, YOU are responsible for going after those dreams and making them happen. I have learned not to be deterred by negativity and to keep a positive attitude in all aspects of my life.

What is your favorite part about being a model?
My favorite part of being a model is that when I go to work, it is always different and something new. I never have to deal with the 9-5 boredom of sitting in an office. I love the runway and I adore collaborating with other creative people on photo shoots. And TRAVEL! I love that I am in a business where I am able to see the world =)

What are your dislikes about modeling?
I hate that the business is so inflexible. In this industry, you have to fit into a mold. As a result, you begin to put a lot of pressure on yourself. Modeling is a very personal job.

What are the qualities for you to be model?
I feel that the most important quality to possess as a model is determination. I have been told �no� by many people. You have to remind yourself that when one door is closed in your face, two windows open up. =)

All rights reserved. Unauthorized use or reproduction of coyrighted materials is strictly prohibited. Who are your influences?
I am absolutely enamored by Cindy Crawford. She seems to get more and more beautiful as she gets older. Her natural beauty is amazing; she is the epitome of a true supermodel.

What types of assignments are you attracted most?
It is a toss up between runway and print work. I love the thrill of the runway and the element of immediacy. It's an �all eyes on you� situation and an adrenaline rush. However, print work is also very exciting. I love being in front of the camera and producing work that I am proud of.

What was the hardest challenge for you?
The hardest challenge for me is definitely my body type. I am a size 4/6 and I am constantly told that I will never find success because I am �too big�. I am constantly pushing myself to keep my foot in the door and I am constantly trying to make a name for myself. It would be easy to fall into the dark side of the industry (drugs, diet pills, addiction, etc) but I have chosen to remain true to who I am. That is very difficult to do.

What are your most memorable modeling experiences? It could be good or bad...
My most memorable experience is being on tour. The first casting that I ever attended at my first agency, I booked a national tour and I was flown around the country for 4 months, spending every weekend in a different city. It really showed me what it is like to be a model and I met my best friends in the process. It was amazing to see the entire country at the age of 20.

What would bring a smile to your face?
I would really love to be signed to a top agency and make a name for myself. I want to convey my messages to young women and be a positive image in the media.

What would be your "dream job" in life?
This is it. This is what I want to do. =)

What projects are you currently working on?
I am constantly testing with new photographers and networking with other professionals in the industry in order to grow and build my portfolio. In addition to that, I am meeting with agencies all over the country and internationally. I am always doing runway work and booking as many jobs as possible on a daily basis.

What are your future plans ?
I am dying to go to Europe and model there for a while. I would love to be published in top fashion magazines and I would love to write a book about my thoughts on the industry. Eventually I would love to start my own agency and guide the careers of others who are trying to make their dreams happen =)

What's the best advice ever given to you?
Find what makes you happy and don't let anything or anyone stand in the way of that happiness. We have 100 years here at best; there is no mountain too high. Life is short, live EVERY day.

What are some Do's and Don'ts in the business that you have learned?
Do: Be yourself and put yourself out there. Meet as many people as you can. Self-promotion and self- management is key. Don't: Give up. I started in the industry three years ago and there were many times when I cried and wanted to quit. Don't listen to negative criticism and don't let ANYONE get the best of you. You are your best critic.

What sort of tips or advice would you give somebody who is looking to modeling?
Be strong. It is all about inner strength and following through. You have to live and breathe the industry in order to succeed.

Is there anything else, to say, we did not ask?
No =) Thank you so much for granting me the opportunity to let my voice be heard. I look forward to my future in this industry and I am excited for the next big thing =)

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This exclusive interview is courtesy of Model Megan Colley and All rights reserved @ NEW YORK BEST MODELS.