Sophomore Kallen Bustamante is not a “model” citizen: while she meets most of the requirements, she is not the typical aspiring model.

She discovered her passion for modeling over the summer of 2009. Since then, she has done things to get her career started, such as calling companies, practicing her model walk and getting edgy bangs to contrast her wavy hair.

 “The only thing that is holding me back is my braces,” said Bustamante.

Models are not supposed to have tin on their teeth; but other than that, she is ready for her close-up.

Instead of caking on pounds of make up like most models, Bustamante relies on natural beauty; at most, she only wears a little mascara.

“I think natural is pretty,” said Bustamante. 

To look good, she dresses nicely and often wears high heels. She shifts her attire, gearing it toward her surroundings and her many cultural influences.

Nice bags and great shoes is just one way she expresses her passion for fashion.

“I always have a theme to what I’m wearing, like earthy, preppy, or beachy,” said Bustamante. 

 She describes her style as preppy with European influences, which most likely comes from three years of living in Spain.  Bustamante was exposed to many other culture due to her father being in the military.

This model is pretty but she is not brain dead. With a love for politics brought on by her father, Bustamante has a handle on America.

“I love to listen to Rush Limbaugh; he’s my guy,” said Bustamante.

Even one of her best friends, sophomore Adriana Vargas, has noticed her passion for politics; she said that Bustamante is always talking about it.        

“She is very Republican, since her parents are in the military,” said Vargas.

This political-savvy fashionista also has words of encouragement for those who want to get into the modeling industry.

“Start now and do your research,” said Bustamante. “Just go for it.”

Although her interest in modeling is fairly recent and she has not yet booked a job, Bustamante is already deeply invested in the industry.

“I’m putting a lot of effort into this,” said Bustamante, “[modeling] means a lot to me.”