VALDOSTA -- For Valdosta State University student Jasmine "J.P." Partlow, each pose, each glamour shot and each stroll down the catwalk bring her a step closer to her dream of becoming a professional model. The 21-year-old junior's dream seems closer now than ever before with a recent call from the producers of the hit reality TV show, America's Next Top Model, inviting Partlow to attend the second round of auditions for the show's 19th cycle.

Partlow was among hundreds of hopefuls who attended a casting call for America's Next Top Model Cycle 19: The College Edition at a Salvation Army Kroc Center in Augusta on Saturday, March 3. She was notified that she was selected to advance to the next level of auditions on March 16. Partlow will audition in Texas on Sunday, April 1 and, if selected by producers, will advance to the final selection process in Los Angeles.

If selected as a participant, Partlow will contend for the title as America's Next Top Model alongside approximately nine to 14 other contestants.

"This means everything to me," said the student, standing five feet 11 inches tall. "All of my hard work, sweat and tears are going into this and I'm so excited to have such an opportunity."

Partlow has been modeling since she was a freshman at Lincoln County High School in Lincolnton. She was accepted into the Barbizon School of Modeling while in high school, but was unable to attend at the time. Nonetheless, she continued to gain experience by participating in various fashion shows whenever possible.

Upon coming to VSU in 2009, Partlow got involved with Exclusive Fashion Models and participated in fashion shows and photo opportunities on and off campus. She remained active with the student organization for two years. Partlow also joined the modeling team for Simply Anna's Fashions and Creative Designs, owned by local fashion designer, Anna Battle. Partlow has modeled in Simply Anna's annual fashion shows, as well as The Valdosta Daily Times' annual Administrative Professionals Luncheons, for the past three years.

Partlow feels she is destined to become a professional model.

"I love being in front of the camera and receiving positive attention. I believe that I have the talent to go far in this profession and I plan to do just that."

Partlow continues to work toward her bachelor's degree in education in the meantime, with less than a year left until she graduates. She expressed a desire to teach elementary or middle grades upon graduation.

"I feel like the best time to reach a child and provide them with the most knowledge is in their early years of development," she said. "I love children and I enjoy being in an environment where I can help others learn."

Between coursework and modeling, Partlow remains involved in campus and community activities. She is a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority at VSU. She also recently became a volunteer with Valdosta Middle School's modeling troop, which is overseen by Nicole Gary, VSU alumnus and former member of VSU's Premier Fashion Models.

Partlow sees this opportunity with America's Next Top Model as the result of years of preparation and hard work.

"I want to go to the top, so I have put all I have into being a great model. I'm excited and determined to put my all into this upcoming audition."

America's Next Top Model is a reality TV series created by supermodel Tyra Banks. The show appears on The CW. Cycle 19 will feature contestants who are currently enrolled in postsecondary education programs. The winner of Cycle 19 will receive assistance in completing their education programs and starting their professional modeling careers. To be considered as a contestant, applicants must be at least five feet seven inches in height and be between 18 to 27 years old.

Source: Valdosta State University