Real-Life Decision Making
You are 16 years old and have always thought it would be exciting to be
a fashion model. You decide, with your parent's approval, to sign up with
a reputable agency in your hometown. You have saved enough money to have your
portfolio done. You also decide to take some modeling classes to improve your
skills.
You are happy with your portfolio. You are very excited about the modeling
classes because you know that there could be a career for you in this. You
stay optimistic, enjoying the company of your friends. You are enjoying this
year of school and maintaining the honor role status that you've had for years.
Time goes on, and after a couple of months you get a phone call from your
agent saying you have your first job.
The next weekend, you attend your first paid photo shoot. You spend the
day modeling clothes for a retail store's catalog. You have a lot of fun,
and are surprised when you receive a paycheck for $150 at the end of the day.
After your pictures are in the catalog, the phone seems to be ringing quite
often. Soon you find that you are modeling every weekend. Then it becomes
not only every weekend, but quite often after school as well. It's hard work,
but you manage to keep up with your schoolwork and a limited amount of social
time.
You are finding that you are becoming more and more in demand. Your schooling
begins to suffer, because you are finding you don't have time to keep up with
the homework your teachers are giving you. You would like to get a tutor,
but don't know how you can arrange school, modeling, tutoring and homework
in the time you have available.
Suddenly you are asked to model internationally -- European
runways, fashion houses and magazines. Your parents are supportive, and one
of them is able to accompany you while you travel. You are, however, only
a sophomore. These days, a 10th grade education doesn't get you very far.
You know you have to plan ahead, and you're aware that most modeling careers
are shorter than other occupations. You realize the importance of a 12th grade
education, and even a post-secondary education. Your friends are complaining
because you don't have any time to socialize. Your school grades are declining.
Your agent keeps phoning.
You know you have to give up something -- what do you do?