After closer examination of the modeling industry and realizing first hand how some of the ‘agencies' out there make the majority of their money, I decided to share some of my knowledge and understanding of how the industry should work, and how it's run by others.

If you are interested in pursuing a dream of becoming a model, keep in mind that you should not have to fork out ANY money for ‘training' to anyone to begin your career in this field. Upon further research, I realized that unfortunately, that is how a lot of modeling agencies make their money. They sign up almost anyone with a checkbook for either photo shoots and/or classes to teach them how to walk and pose, but rarely provide actual paid work for that trained individual. IT'S A SCAM. Just a classic way to make you feel like it's going somewhere, when unfortunately for most people it isn't. Even if the agency claims to be a member of the Better Business Bureau, it's still worth looking into, as most are.

Also take into consideration how they got a hold of you. If you are randomly called, and asked to come in for an audition, perhaps you want to think twice, and save yourself the time and future costs. The only way to ensure someone thinks you've got it is to be approached by a true model scout. Those who can't afford to spend over $1000 on classes are simply disposable to the agency.

Even Tyra Banks said it loud and clear on America's Next Top Model that if you are ever asked to pay for anything then it's a scam, and your best bet is to walk in the other direction — and she was right.

In the past I've had negative experiences and outcomes with certain agencies as well as very successful and positive first hand experiences. And all of my positive experiences have cost me nothing, but I've gained so much. Also the way you feel and the way you are treated is a great indication of how the outcome will be.

Most recently I've come to learn that a local agency located downtown London is fueling on the dreams and bank accounts of hopeful prospects. Keep in mind that London, Ontario simply does not have the market for a lot of editorial or commercial work; you want to ask yourself if an investment is ever going to pay off. In most cases the costs of ‘getting started in the business' are far greater than any profit made. Another great idea is to research the quality of models that work with the agency. Obviously they will display their best talent, but what about the remaining 80 per cent who will probably never get work?

I've personally seen too many people fall victim of modeling scams and ploys. Although the exterior of the building and agency may look polished and professional, you want to ensure that the way they are conducting business is honest, legit and creates results.

The fashion/modeling industry is one that I love to work in and currently work in, but like anything out there, you just have to ensure that you've done you're research and know exactly what you're getting into. In most cases if you're gut is telling you that what you're doing is not right and you're asked to pay for something before your third visit to the agency, something gotta give, and it shouldn't be you!

Editorial opinions or comments expressed in this online edition of Interrobang newspaper reflect the views of the writer and are not those of the Interrobang or the Fanshawe Student Union. The Interrobang is published weekly by the Fanshawe Student Union at 1001 Fanshawe College Blvd., P.O. Box 7005, London, Ontario, N5Y 5R6 and distributed through the Fanshawe College community. Letters to the editor are welcome. All letters are subject to editing and should be emailed. All letters must be accompanied by contact information. Letters can also be submitted online by clicking here.