Answering a Reader Question #975

Unknown Wrote:

 Hey Dania, 
Im so in love with the way you handle all these questions I hope you're going to have an answer for mine. Im 17, just came out to New York and I was planning on stopping by some agencies like IMG to " pick up information" to kinda make a good first impression? Im about 125lbs and 5'9. Im pretty European. Im very nervous, in todays trends having big lips is almost a must but mine are pretty thin. Do you think I should just submit online and possibly get fillers or just go the way I am ??

Hey, Unknown!

Dropping by the agencies for anything other than attending an open call or scheduled interview isn't a good idea. On the websites of many agencies they say to not come by unless you have an appointment or if there is an open call happening.

But the good news is that many of the top agencies in NYC have open calls where you can go in as you are to be evaluated. You have to visit each agency's website to find out what days and time frames they have them, however, so that'll involve some planning to make sure you are able to attend as many as possible.

Never make changes to yourself physically just to please an agency or to try and fit in. The best models are those who are confident in themselves so I strongly encourage you to find out when the agencies you're interested in are having open calls, read the details about what to bring/wear, and show up as you are. That is the best way to make a strong first impression.

Also keep in mind that what doesn't work for one agency may be the right fit for another so don't be discouraged if you don't get interest from one or more because it is about finding the right match. And there are plenty of agencies in the NYC market so that works in your favor.

So go in there with what you've got and see what happens. I'll be rooting for you!

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