How did you discover Barbizon of Akron/Pro-Model and Talent Management?

Melissa: I spoke with a Pro-Model and Talent representative and she encouraged me to come in for an audition. Once I got there, everyone made me feel comfortable.

Do you feel you would have been exposed to the auditions and assignments you’ve received without representation through Pro-Model and Talent?

Melissa: Absolutely not! Without Pro-Model and Talent, I definitely wouldn’t be going on auditions, and without my Barbizon training, I wouldn’t be getting the assignments.

Tell us about some of the auditions and assignments you’ve done.

Melissa: I’ve auditioned for a Victoria’s Secret training video, and for a print assignment with Henri’s Cloud Nine. I’ve completed print assignments for Medical Mutual, I am the featured model for Gemesis jewelry, and was even featured on the cover of Cleveland Magazine for them— very cool! I also participate in runway and bridal shows from Cleveland to Columbus, and they are so much fun!

With your experience now, do you feel training is important to succeed as a local model/actor? If so, why?

Melissa: I sure do. I really feel that I learned a lot from my Barbizon training. It totally helped me to learn about the ins and outs of the business, and taught me the techniques I need in order to succeed as a model and talent. Like I said, I wouldn’t be getting these assignments if I didn’t have my Barbizon training.

What is your best piece of advice for aspiring models or actors beginning in the local market?

Melissa: Take any opportunity that comes your way! Any experience, whether in the classroom or an assignment, is good experience, and will make you into a better person, model or talent.

We asked our local models/talent: men, women, and kids, to give us 5 minutes of their time to answer the five most commonly asked questions about modeling and acting in order to give YOU insight on their experiences in the industry and with Barbizon of Akron and Pro-Model and Talent Management.

Straight Talk from Local Models and Talent gives you and aspiring models and actors information and insights on what it's like to work in front of the camera, on how they got their starts modeling/acting, and what they are doing today as a result of Barbizon of Akron/Pro-Model and Talent Management!