Photo by Doug Jacobson, City Pages. Homepage photo by Ricardo Reyna, Exposed Media

Inquiring Minds is a new Web feature where 210SA asks the burning questions that everyone wants to know. Check back to 210SA.com each Monday for a new installment. This week, a San Antonio model answered  a couple of our questions via e-mail.

Name: Valerie Garza
Profession: Model
Age: 26
More info: Web site

Do you have to watch your diet and exercise religiously?
Not religiously, but I do work out 2 to 3 times a week. And with as picky as I am about food, I don't have to worry too much about dieting!
 
 
Do you have to make sure you don't get a farmer's tan or scars or bruises? If so, how do manage to stay so blemish-free?
I like an "even all-over color" so tanning is a must! I also have a pretty thorough beauty/hygiene regimen for taking care of my face because wrinkles are DEFINITELY not cute!
 
 
What do you have to say to people who think models are flighty airheads?
LOL! I guess this could be true in some instances! I have really met some pretty intelligent and well-educated models, so I don't really support this idea.
 
 
What is the craziest modeling job you have every done?
Hmmm ... that's a good one. So far they have been pretty modest ... I have been working the Bud Light/Maxim Parties as a Go-Go Dancer for the past couple of years, and depending on the DJ's choice of music, the job can get pretty crazy ... :s
 
 
Do you get hit on more often after people find out your a model?
I would have to say that the attempts to get my number are a little more evident and frequent once a person knows that I am a model! But I don't notice a really huge difference overall.
 
 
What is your advice for someone who wants to become a model?
I would say modeling is tough! You're either too skinny, too fat, too short, too Pretty! Too Dark ... It's a lot more work and maintenance than most people think. So if this is something that you plan to be extremely passionate about, then go for it and make sure that you have some pretty thick skin. No matter how gorgeous you are, you cannot possibly be what EVERYONE needs in a model.
 
 
What is the most untrue stereotype that you have to deal with as a model?
Stuck Up! I am NOT Stuck Up! Although every model is high maintenance because it's just something that comes with the profession, most of us can be pretty down to earth and modest :)
 
 
Can you make a living as a model in San Antonio?
I actually think it's very difficult to obtain a decent living on just modeling alone. I think most models have another way to produce income. In my case, I freelance as a makeup artist for other models, photographers, productions and agencies, and it has helped a lot.
 
Do you have a tip for all-day lipstick color?
Ah ... if only there were really such a thing! LOL. I reapply my lipstick about 10 times a day throughout! It gets pretty pricey after awhile!
 
Bravo or MTV? And why?
Oh MTV totally. They are so hip and current, you never a miss a beat.