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Captivating Caralyn – Our Interview with Plus Size Model Caralyn Mirand

by Colleen of www.shortcurvyfierce.com

You’ve seen this bright-eyed beauty on Macys.com, Syndey’s Closet and as a finalist in Tyra Banks’ Fiercely Real Model Search. Caralyn Mirand is focused, dedicated, and her future in the plus industry is so bright, you can see it shine from her eyes. This radiating junior plus model is already making waves within the plus industry, but keeps her plate balanced and full with college, family, friends, and modeling. We look forward to basking in Caralyn’s bright light, because she’s certainly a star.

Colleen: You were introduced to the fashion industry by competing in the Fiercely Real Model Search. How did you find out about the search? What made you take the plunge and apply?

Caralyn: I found out about the contest through social media, thinking it was a really fun, abstract idea! I decided to “take the plunge” when I chose to avoid applying for college scholarships online! As soon as I posted my photos, I was already nine pages into all of the pictures, thinking there was no hope for me! Little did I know that I was going to be contacted by a producer the next day asking me to submit more photographs! Unfortunately for me, I had to break it to my mother that I was not completing scholarship information online. From the time that I submitted my photographs to the moment when I was off to NY to film the show, it was a matter of two weeks, so it all happened very quickly.

Colleen: How has your life changed since being one of the Fiercely Real Model Search finalists?

Caralyn: My life has completely changed since being one of the Fiercely Real finalists. When I finished with the show, I knew that I had two choices- either to go back to my normal life and forget it ever happened, or use the show as a launch pad for other amazing opportunities and ventures. I chose to pursue modeling because I know deep down it was an opportunity that I could not pass up.  It has become my passion.

Colleen: Self-confidence is something that some plus size teens struggle. On the Tyra Banks show, we saw you reveal some small insecurities. How have you worked past them?

Caralyn: The experiences on the Tyra Show and in modeling have helped me to be proud of who I am inside and out and very comfortable in my skin.  I focus my energy on people in my life who want to see me succeed and learned to really rock my curves!

Colleen: Your modeling career began to take off while you were beginning your journey as a college student at Clarkson University. Some would have put college on hold. What influenced your decision not to?

Caralyn: Education is the key to a successful future, and is something my parents instilled in me and is highly valued.   Right now, I am able to balance both successfully.

Read the entire interview in this months issue of PLUS Model Magazine.