By Dmitriy Kizhikin, For The Miami Student
Last week, I arrived at the Miami University Club of Fashion and Design's model auditions for the chance at becoming a model. The event took over the third floor of Armstrong with cameras, high-heels and a few beards.
While the turnout was mostly women, I ran into a few men making their way up the stairs as I finished my audition.
After writing down my name and e-mail, I was given a number, 79, and asked to have my picture taken.
The required attire of dark jeans and a white or black top reached a whole new level - everyone put their own twist on the requirements, which led to diversity and personality among the hopeful models.
I ran into a few girls that I knew from my classes and my dorm. Gabby, a freshman on my floor, asked for advice from the girls in front of her who participated last year.
"It's easy, don't worry about it," said the girl in front of her. "Don't forget to pose at the end of each walk that you do and you'll be great."
The returning models were still on edge, however, because the process is selective.
Even the friendly advice couldn't mask the serious atmosphere.
After taking my picture outside the pavilion, I got in line. I was number 79, meaning that on Thursday, the previous day, at least 70 people auditioned before me.
Once in line, I stepped up and got my measurements taken by another group of girls. There was a runway set up in the center of the pavilion with a long desk at the front. This is where the judges sat.
"Once you climb up the steps onto the runway, you will loudly state your number and walk up and down the runway two times," one of the girls sitting at the desk said. "Don't forget to pose at the end of each walk, but the pose isn't that important. We are primarily looking at posture."
After she made her announcement, more small talk ensued among the candidates. I could hear nervous conversations - this is an audition, after all, and we only got a minute, maybe even less, to impress the people watching us.
Suddenly, I remembered this was my first time modeling. I have no experience on the runway, so I made the split decision to walk with personality.
The girls in front of me each walked the runway with confidence. Four poses total, and some people even managed to pose differently each time.
I had a little fun with my poses, but made sure to keep good posture. Out of nervousness, I did my best to avoid eye contact with the judges.
"You did great, thank you so much for coming," one of the judges told me as I removed my number.
I was intimidated by the returning models and confident faces, but found out everyone was struggling with nerves just as I was.
I wasn't sure how to feel afterward. I gave it my best shot, and felt better as I left the pavilion, though I was relieved to leave the tense atmosphere.
I'm still waiting to hear back about how I did. Hopefully, the emails will be sent out later this week.