On the catwalk

One ASU model learns the beauty of Harajuku girls, fresh sushi and a foreign country first-hand

 by Britnee Johnson
 published on Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Photo Courtesy of Britnee Johnson

I was a big fan of the Harajuku girls introduced by the catchy tunes of Gwen Stefani. I was accustomed to sushi and knew what a typical kimono was. I did not, however, think in a million years I would come face to face with any of those.

I had done a bit of modeling in Arizona and thought I knew the commercial-based Phoenix business. However, when I was called to attend a casting with a scout from Japan, I had no clue what was really in store for me.

In January 2007, I was notified that I would be departing and working with a modeling agency in Tokyo come May. So with three huge backpacks and a tote, I was ready for this Gwen Stefani-talked-about, Gengki-deska world known as Japan.

Upon arriving in Narita International Airport, I was thrilled. Tokyo … really? It still hadn't hit me. It wasn't until I had made it past customs and heard everyone speaking their native tongue that I knew I was not in Mesa anymore, let alone the U.S.! Luckily, I managed to get on the bus and make it to downtown, where both my manager and my house key awaited my arrival.

After settling into my cracker-box sized pad and meeting the other girls in my agency, I realized that this was not just any summer job. The next day I was already out for castings and go-sees. I was meeting clients and sitting in a van driving around with five other girls from around the world and finding my thoughts reverting to back to that casting four months prior. What a trip!

Two months managed to go by all too fast. The jobs were interesting and unlike those I had had in America. I learned a little Japanese but more than that, I made some incredible friendships. The experience truly was once in a lifetime.

I learned that when on your own in a place as urban as Tokyo, things can get pretty lively. I also realized that the principles my family taught me growing up carried with me, whether I wanted to admit it or not.

My roommate was a slob and I cleaned. Food was expensive, so I saved. Petty disputes occurred among the models and I ignored them (to a certain degree).

It was a great two months. Friends I'll never forget. Jobs I'll always laugh about, and above all else, a greater appreciation for the English language and road signs that I can read.

Being back home and, more importantly, back to my true reality, I still sometimes miss Tokyo. But with great memories and 30 more Facebook friends to keep in touch with, I say, "sayonara" until next time, when another surprise adventure comes my way.

— Reach the writer at spm@asu.edu
»Send us your own life story at spm@asu.edu.