Walking down the South Oval is a lot different than walking down a runway for a New York fashion show. For students who hope to one day pursue a career in modeling, one step will lead to the other.

Stephanie Edmonds, psychology and English senior, began modeling at the age of 14 and continued modeling in college.

"Students pursue modeling while in school because they have an intense love for the industry," Edmonds said. "The art of expressing an idea, demeanor and stunning splendor is what this craft is all about. Our purpose is to make fashion desirable. It's a business that requires focus, dedication and professional aggression."

Edmonds began her modeling career when she was discovered at the age of 14. When she began college, she decided to take a break from modeling to focus on her education.

"I accepted the fact that I would put all work in entertainment on hold until after graduation," Edmonds said. "About a year ago, I decided that I was going to dive back in and make it happen here. Though Oklahoma isn't exactly the heart of Hollywood, I am able to actively pursue my greatest passions while obtaining my degrees. I can't think of a better way to have spent my college years."

Modeling, for some students, can also be an alternative for those who don't want to get a job. Conlan Olberding, history senior, says he likes working as little as possible and still having enough money to get by.

"I think that most people pursue music, photography, acting or modeling because they're trying to avoid a day job," Olberding said. "I don't want to be committed to a job. I would rather work when it's convenient for me. It's nice to just get a call or an e-mail from someone that wants you to work for two days, and I'll do it if it works with my schedule."

Although these students plan on furthering their careers in modeling, finding a major that fits with their career goals is difficult. Instead, obtaining a degree outside their preferred industry gives them stability for the future.

"A common stereotype regarding models is that they lack any form of recognizable intelligence," Edmonds said. "There are so many of us who are concurrently pursuing college degrees while working in the industry. Personally, I plan on obtaining an MFA in acting and a doctorate in literature from UCLA post graduation. Education is a lifelong endeavor, not to be underestimated. The romance is anything but one-sided."

Whether it is for a photographer or down a runway, students enjoy expressing themselves through modeling.

"Mostly I enjoy taking pictures," Olberding said. "I like getting dressed up and working with photographers to produce the image that they're looking for. So far I haven't been able to travel much, on account of school, but free travel is definitely something I'm looking forward to."

With television shows that reflect the industry, models and modeling are hyped up and glamorized, making one lucky contestant's dreams come true.

"Television shows like 'America's Next Top Model' and '8th & Ocean' enable the keenest of inspiration," Edmonds said. "Individuals who have yet to experience the ups and downs on the [modeling] business are able to understand the reality in how grinding this industry can be."

With the influence television has on young people, it is easy to overlook the fact that modeling is more than looks and fame. Outside their glamorous lifestyles, college models are making a name for themselves first in school.

"I feel it is wonderful for young people to find someone they can relate to -- ordinary people with extraordinary dreams," Edmonds said. "Every person has an experience that is unique to only them. As aspiring artists encounter the lives of others, they find peace in the imperfection and unpredictability of life."
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