Sometimes I regret I started modeling career rather late – at my twenty, but on the other hand I know that everything comes on its right time. Once you get to the correct environment your head starts working differently. Search for yourself, never stop searching what you love and you will become whom you are supposed to be.
I was born in a middle-sized town in the Far East of Russia and never thought of becoming a model. Once being a teenager I tried to take a course at modeling school but just could handle it for a couple of months – I didn't feel it was someting mine, I felt I could't open myself because of various complexes and found the whole thing boring.
Everything changed when I turned twenty years old and me and my friend went to study in New York. The city captured us. We were charmed and so excited with life. At this time I met a modeling scout and he inspired me. I made my first polaroids and started going to castings. Either my agency was so caring or the energy of the city stimulated me so much or it was simply my right time - but I felt I've found myself. Without much preparation I passed castings and got my first modeling jobs. Photographers were making me compliments. I was happy, I finally felt beautiful, I lost weight. In the same year came out my first magazine cover. I met people who believed in me, city which gave me an opportunity and I believed in myself, too.
When came the time to go back home I was not the same person anymore. Finishing my studies in Russia I never lost a chance to get more modeling experience, participated in local shoots, catwalks, beauty contests and tv-shows. Once I was sent to China to participate in the fashion show and found this experience really exotic and amazing.
Though I've traveled the world I never forgot my first agency and we are remaining friendly. Since my first visit to New York I continued going there every year for a couple of months and always go to castings. I feel refreshed after these trips.
Now I am continuing my career in Spain and still successfully work as a model here. I even started acting. I love what I do and now I know that I've chosen the best way. Never allow doubts to distract you from doing what you want to do.
I hope someone will find my story interesting and useful. I just want all aspiring models to know how important it is to believe in yourself. Nothing is impossible then. Search for the things that feed your soul and make you shine. It can be a person, destination or a hobby – but never stop searching.
