Brains or Beauty Should you model during the school session
April 23, 2009
In today’s society, it is commonplace for girls to begin their modeling careers at an early age, sometimes as young as 13 years old. At such an age, it is often debated whether those years should be dedicated to school studies or the pursuit of a modeling career.
This is a common dilemma facing both teenage models and their parents.
Which option is appropriate depends upon the individual situation. From a professional modeling standpoint, the months when school is in session are often considered the best time to begin modeling, as there is much less competition.
During the summer months there are an abundance of models available to clients.
For critical parents who do not approve of a modeling career, this dilemma often compounds their disapproval. A majority of parents do not want to see their teenager waste their time with such a fleeting career.
Modeling often involves a large commitment with little reward. When considering the two activities, most parents say that school is more important than modeling.
Many of the competitive modeling agencies will seek out a compromise, developing an individual plan that encompasses a combination of modeling and schooling. Unfortunately, professional fashion events often occur during the school year.
Failure to attend these events results in the loss of a rare opportunity and may hinder the ability to further develop a professional modeling career.
If you or your teenager believes that you have what it takes to become a model, and you are presented with such an opportunity during the school year, ask yourself the following questions.
Are you a good student? If you are a dedicated student and a fast learner, you may be able to take a month off of school to attend a modeling function and still maintain adequate grades.
What is the school policy with regard to excess absences? Are the school personnel supportive of this career choice? Will they make exceptions for individuals on the basis of good academic standing? School policies vary, so what applies to one may not be true in another. Always check.
If school rules do not prevent you from pursuing outside interests and you have demonstrated an ability to maintain good academic standing, modeling may be an acceptable choice for you. Another important concern is your grade level.
Beginning a modeling career years before you are scheduled to graduate will be a lot easier than pursuing such a career during your final year of school.
Starting early will allow you to prove yourself to administrators and they may approve time off during exams for modeling work.
If it is your final year of school, it is in your best interest to hold off on the modeling and to concentrate on final exams. This will improve your chances for continuing education.
The competition to become a professional model is stiff. Unless you become a supermodel like Kate Moss, modeling is generally a short-lived career rather than a lifetime profession.
Even without reaching supermodel status, modeling can expose you to different cultures, boost your confidence and allow you to earn good money while doing so.
You should always think about the future; finish school and attend college if possible. Education is always a priority.
But that doesn’t mean you should give up on your dreams of modeling. If you are presented with the opportunity, it may be possible to combine modeling and schooling. This can result in a professional, rewarding career.





























