* Both Jodie and her son Matt are Barbizon of Akron graduates and have listed with Pro-Model and Talent Management.

How did Matt first become interested in modeling and acting?

Jodie: The high school needed a few elementary school children for their production of “A Christmas Carol”. He auditioned, got a part, and fell in love with acting and being on stage.

What made you decide to have Matt attend Barbizon of Akron?

Jodie: He wanted to take acting classes and since I was a working model through Pro-Model and Talent, and a graduate of Barbizon of Akron it seemed the best, most natural place to start.

Did Matt enjoy the Barbizon training?

Jodie: Matt enjoyed the acting and seeing himself on camera. He also enjoyed meeting and interacting with all the students in his class. He liked reading from scripts and learning how to convey various emotions.

Do you feel the Barbizon training benefited Matt? If so how?

Jodie: The Barbizon training and the professionals at Baribzon of Akron helped with Matt’s self-esteem and his ability to communicate with adults. He learned how to focus on the speaker and take direction well. He learned a lot about the industry and the hard work it takes to learn and practice acting skills. If Matt hadn’t started at Barbizon of Akron he would not have had experience in the industry, nor the opportunity to work in Los Angeles.

What local auditions and assignments has Matt done with Pro-Model and Talent Management?

Jodie: Matt did a print ad for Nationwide Insurance and a commercial for Travel Ohio, which put him into the actors union (SAG); which was a big plus for him going to Los Angeles.

What was his favorite job?

Jodie: Hands down the Travel Ohio commercial. Matt got to travel around Ohio for 4 days and do really fun things like canoeing, going to a baseball game, and hiking in a State park! He also liked hanging out with the crew and his on-camera mom and dad.

From a parent’s view point would you recommend Barbizon of Akron to other people with children?

Jodie: Absolutely, and I have! You have two current students enrolled who I recommended to Barbizon. Our experiences have been great! Everyone is easy to work with and I’ve never felt worried as a parent to have Matt working on a job, at a photoshoot, or in class with the Staff. I feel he has learned skills like communication, self-confidence, etiquette, public speaking, and oral reading needed to be successful in life no matter what the occupation.

You mentioned that you attended Barbizon of Akron; did you benefit from the classes? If so how?

Jodie: Yes, I attended the Barbizon of Akron female modeling and finishing program in addition to the acting program before Matt became interested. I learned many of the same things Matt had the opportunity to learn, including how to improve communication, self-confidence, public speaking, etc. My self- esteem has improved as well as my ability to get up in front of people and speak or perform as a result of the training. I feel more confident at auditions and at my day job. You are never too old or young to learn these important skills.

What local assignments/bookings have you done as a result of listing with Pro-Model and Talent Management?

Jodie: I’ve been with Pro-Model and Talent Management for several years and I have booked many modeling and acting jobs! Every audition is a great learning experience and a chance to practice all the skills I learned in class.

What was you favorite local job and why?

Jodie: A photoshoot I did for Improvements magazine because it was my first job and I loved everything about it. I loved getting my hair and make-up done, I loved changing into different clothes for different products, and I loved working in front of the camera at different locations. After that I was bitten! I knew for sure I wanted to work in the industry and I felt confident that I could do it! I also really enjoyed the Cleveland Indians television commercial because I got to see many parts of Progressive Field, meet some of the players, and I felt famous because so many people saw it on TV and recognized me! Truly, I haven’t had a job I disliked. They all have been really great experiences. It’s true if you do what you love, it doesn’t feel like work. Matt says the same thing. When his four days of filming were over for Travel Ohio he was sad it all ended, but he enjoyed seeing it on TV, on the internet, and collecting the paychecks!

From an adult perspective would you recommend Barbizon of Akron to other adults?

Jodie: Yes, for the reasons I’ve mentioned! Regardless of your occupation or

age, the skills learned are valuable in any life situation.

Any last words you would like to add about your experiences with Barbizon of Akron and Pro-Model and Talent Management?

Jodie: Matt had the opportunity to go to Los Angeles with Pro-Model and Talent Management, and had a blast! It was an experience of a lifetime; he signed with an agent and manager and is looking forward to a future in the national modeling and acting industry.