Sophomore Laura Shi has walked the runway once a week for a year now and knows all about the glamors of modeling, the pampering, and the not-so-great four-inch heels.
“I remember always watching America’s Next Top Model, and my mom and I started talking about [modeling],” Shi said. “One day I grew to 5’ 11” and decided to become a model.”
Her work usually takes place every Thursday at the Liberty Hotel in Boston where she practices walking on the runway, trying on clothes, and posing.
In order to maintain her appearance, she has to keep up with her health and fitness to keep her modeling figure.
“I have no specific diet,” Shi said. “I don’t eat food that will make me bloated before a show. Also, I try to swim twice a week, lotion my legs everyday, and I do ab workouts every night.”
One thing that Shi believes has changed is how people see her.
“Now I think people expect me to look good all the time, and I know it has helped me with my posture and poise,” Shi said.
Shi believes modeling has changed her for the better and helped her with skills she won’t learn in school.
“It really helped with time management because shows are late at night,” Shi said.
Overall, Shi is happy with her experience as a model and hopes to continue the modeling journey into college.
“I’d love to continue modeling in the future; it helps me with my confidence and gives me exposure to new things,” Shi said.