She's Got the Look Models

The first round of competition, the casting call, was painless for me. We lined up in groups of 10 and walked together across the room and stated our name and age. I was notified on the spot that I was selected to advance to the next round of competition and meet the celebrity panel of judges. My heart began to pound uncontrollably. I was never told who the judges were, which increased the suspense and nervous energy.  

As nervous as I was, my only concern was to impress the judges – and to not trip as I walked down the runway to meet them. Well, I must have impressed them because they voted unanimously to send me to New York for the next round of competition! I could not control my emotions at that point. I cried uncontrollably and was speechless for the next few seconds. I was thrilled to have another chance at a modeling career.

Tanya's 6 Audition Tips:

• Be prompt for your call time. Arrive 10-15 minutes early to your location. It usually takes time to find parking, freshen up and sign in                                                      
• Be prepared to answer questions about yourself. Make sure you know what you wrote on your application, because you will probably have to answer similar queries from the judges.
• Be authentic. Sean Patterson, the president of Wilhelmina Models, Inc., is looking for more than just a pretty face. He's looking for that special something -- you have it or you don't. Be genuine and allow the judges to see your true beauty.
• Be the best YOU. Bring on the personality and charm. Don't be afraid.
• Keep a positive attitude. Your attitude will determine your altitude. Don't whine, complain or nag. Keep a positive attitude, and others will feel your synergy and be attracted to you.
• Own the moment. Walk in and let the judges know that you have arrived and there is no need to look any further. Tell them you have the look without saying a word. Let your body language speak volumes about who you really are. This is the moment to be who you say you are and let your light shine!

Other Essentials to Remember

Make sure you bring your application paperwork, your photo ID and a COPY of your ID, a snack, makeup, comfortable shoes and a good book to read with you to the open call. I stood in line for about three hours before I got selected to meet the judges. My feet were throbbing by the time I finally got to sit down.

A bag of nuts and a bottle of water will come in handy -- trust me. If it's a hot sunny day, you may want to bring an umbrella to block the sun and a portable chair. There will be hundreds of contestants and the media may be there to do press interviews. Be prepared to speak enthusiastically on camera and tell them why you think you have "The Look." Don't be surprised when your friends call you that evening and say "Girrrrl, I saw you on the news tonight!"