Interview with a model

For my journalism module, News and Feature writing, I worked in a small group to produce a student based magazine called "SCOOP", for which we recieved a first, which was a great achievement. After reading about a model who goes to my university in The Sun, I decided to contact her to see if she would be available for an interview. She accepted, so I met her at my campus to conduct the interview. Here is the finished article.

Jemma does body part modelling

Jemma juggles uni life with her modelling

When you think of the word model, you probably conjure up all sorts of stereotypical notions. It wouldn’t be unusual to envisage stick-thin girls who are snooty, catty, self-obsessed…but Jemma Jade Saare is everything but.
It wasn’t hard to pick Birmingham City university student Jemma out from the crowd in the bustling Costa canteen. Perched on a sofa looking expensive in a sophisticated black leather jacket, sheer leggings and boots, the leggy model greets me with a welcoming smile. Her almond shaped eyes are framed with a subtle flick of black liquid liner and the half-Chinese, half-Estonian beauty exhibits all the features of a classic model: flawless skin, pearly white teeth and an enviable yet healthy figure. With her friendly presence and relaxed attitude, I feel instantly at ease in her company.
   She smashes any formed stereotype that models are ditzy and shallow, as she speaks with clarity, intellect and poise – composing answers thoughtfully yet confidently in a well-spoken manner. Watch out BCU girls and guys – Jemma is set for a sparkling future, of this I am certain!

RISING STAR
Jemma is fast becoming a soaring success in the fashion industry. Starting when she was just 9 years old, what started as an innocent hobby soon became a viable career path.
   The stunner was signed with Boss model management but left because her desire to obtain a degree at university meant she couldn’t commit to the agency and its high demands. Jemma has worked for the likes of Next, NSPCC and Tatler and does fashion shows in the iconic Mailbox for Harvey Nichols.
   Clients book her specifically for her luscious lips, never-ending legs and silky hair. “I do mostly commercial stuff,” Jemma explains, sipping a cup of coffee. “I am viewed as a ‘token ethnic’.”

THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE BITCHING
It wouldn’t be uncommon to assume models have it easy, but according to Jemma, the reality is a whole other story. “It’s like you are constantly working. Your agency can ring you up whenever, and you have to be prepared to work – the amount of travelling is insane!”
   However, Jemma admits that there are perks to having such a fashion-focused career, including a model discount for MAC makeup and 30% off Harvey Nichols. The pay isn’t too shabby either, as Jemma has made up to £2,000 for one project – not bad for a day’s work!
   When questioned about the darker side of the industry, Jemma shakes off assumptions that models indulge in spiteful gossiping: “In my fifteen years of modelling I haven’t experienced any bitchiness! You can’t afford to be like that because it will damage your reputation in the industry. If you don’t do the job properly, they’ll drop you.”

BALANCING ACT
  The ambitious student has always had other career plans in mind. Ever since she was a young girl, Jemma aspired to become a writer, which explains her choice of studying an English Literature degree. However, balancing the two has proved to be a challenge. “It’s  really, really difficult.” She explains, tossing her black tousled hair over her shoulder. “My agency gets annoyed with me sometimes because I’m not free all the time.”
   Although her modelling career is blossoming, Jemma holds her studies in high regard, refusing to miss classes and prioritising university. “Modelling is a great experience, but it’s career that won’t last forever, so I want a degree to fall back on.”
   Many girls dream of obtaining the supermodel lifestyle, but what does it take to become successful in such a competitive industry? “You definitely need lots of confidence to be a model,” Jemma claims, her chocolate brown eyes glittering.  “My advice would be to send photographs to local agencies. You don’t have to be a certain weight or height because there are different types of modelling.”

HARSH REALITY
With a career so judgemental and image-obsessed, being thick skinned is essential. “The industry is cut-throat!” Jemma claims, toying with her silver heart bracelet. “You can’t go into it thinking “Oh, I’m so pretty” because although one agent may tell you that you’re beautiful, another may reject you.”
   Jemma is a shimmering example of an ambitious individual hungry for success and brimming with determination.
   Who said models were unintelligent, shallow   attention seekers? If Jemma is anything to go by, they’re down-to-earth and likeable individuals. Although juggling her modelling and academic career is proving a challenge, keeping her options open will allow her to reach her goals in the long run.