One Year On: From Shop Assistant To Milan Runway With Alem Tihak
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How did you get into the Elite Model Look 2015?
Every time someone asks me that question it draws a smile on my face. I was working for Hollister in the Plus City in Linz at that time. During my lunch break a scout walked up to me and convinced me to participate – so it was a coincidence! I never thought of becoming a model. I wanted to become a professional football player (smiles). My family and friends kept telling me that they see potential, but I took that more as a compliment than an attempt to consider this as a career choice. My career aspiration was something “more realistic”, like economics.
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What is your fitness routine?
I go to the gym 3-4 times a week and on top I go for a run 2-3 times a week. If I don’t go jogging I keep my stamina up with football, basketball and boxing. I would generally recommend it to everybody to do fitness because nothing speaks against living a healthy life. Furthermore you look good for the girls ;) I love it! I started playing football when I was 6 years old. For me, sport is an alternative to break out of your daily grind and a good way to reduce stress.
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Do you have a few tips on how to get the perfect abs?
“Abs are made in the kitchen.” – this is a quote I always keep in mind. It is said that the secret to the perfect abs is a combination of 70% food and 30% workout.
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Is there an object (except your smartphone) that you have with you all the time?
When I am travelling I always take pictures of my family with me because they are really important to me. And I have my earphones with me all the time because doing a workout without music is impossible.
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Morning grouch or early bird?
Clearly morning grouch!
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What can you suggest young talents that think about becoming a model?
First of all I would recommend finishing school. If you still want to become a model after that, try to get into the business step by step. You should try everything to achieve your goal. To be a part of the EML is obviously a very good start. You should always be professional, combined with the right amount of fun. Always be true to yourself and be confident.
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Who inspires you?
First and foremost my father and Zinédine Zidane. In the model business I follow the careers of Baptiste Giabiconi and Sean O’Pry.
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How do you want to enhance your career in the model business?
Step by step. Since I walked at Milan Fashion Week this January, I can be sure that choosing to become a model was the right thing to do. Nevertheless I have to learn and enhance my knowledge a lot. I am really looking forward to visiting my new agencies in Barcelona and Copenhagen. But my next big goal will be to get agencies in Paris and London.