In November of 2006, Starry Constellation Magazine interviewed Cycle 7‘s Michelle Babin following her elimination and appearance on the show. Here is the text from the interview (written and posted by Jamie Steinberg):
Q) Why did you apply for the show?
A) It was kind of an on the whim thing. My sister had applied for cycle six and they called her back for cycle seven. She was going to get a chance to go to a more exclusive interview time where there wouldn’t be as many people and she asked if I could come along. I decided to go with it!
Q) What did you learn most about modeling from the show?
A) I learned a lot about modeling! I learned better ways to take pictures and the ins and outs of the industry. I learned to keep my chin up and to make sure you show your neck. Eyes are a big focus point and I learned mostly little things. I learned that you have to be confident.
Q) Do you regret going on the show?
A) No, it was a cool experience. I don’t regret it at all. It was a lot of fun.
Q) Have you come to terms with your sexuality?
A) No, I am still in limbo-land. I am working on it.
Q) Do you feel like you’re a role model for those struggling with their sexuality?
A) I guess I kind of am. I don’t think I should be since I don’t know what I want. I guess in a way I am.
Q) What did you like most about your time in Spain?
A) The country is just really beautiful. I loved the environment and just hanging out with the girls. The architecture was really amazing. That caught my attention a lot.
Q) Did you feel CariDee’s comment was clearly a joke or was it out of line?
A) I thought it was a joke. They kind of blew it up out of proportion afterwards. It, actually, seemed like a joke the whole time and then later on we left and Mr. Jay came to us, making a big deal. We thought it was no big deal and then out of the blue it was a big controversy.
Q) Do you feel your age was a disadvantage to you?
A) I think it was slightly because the older girls had a little bit more experience in life so they knew what they wanted a little more and had more knowledge of the industry. There was also an advantage since younger girls appeal more to the agencies. Being too old is a bad thing.
Q) Who did you feel was your biggest competition?
A) I want to say, personally, my twin because we had to fight against each other for the same look. Overall, I think Melrose was because she knew a lot about the industry and kind of knew the ins and outs. So, I feel she kind of had a leg up. She knew so much about fashion that it kind of put her a step ahead.
Q) Why do you feel you lacked confidence?
A) I think it was due to indecision since I wasn’t sure what I wanted. It’s easier to go for something when it’s been your dream all your life. I was kind of wavering in between so it kind of made me a little less confident because I wasn’t sure what I wanted.
Q) How did you feel having to leave Amanda?
A) I was okay with it. I wished her the best of luck and I hope she does well.
Q) Did you leave a note for anyone when you left?
A) I left everybody notes. I told Amanda that I wished her luck and said she better kick ass. I left CariDee a note saying she had better do her best and just be the persona that she is. There is no use in hiding since it’s gotten her this far. I thanked Melrose and them for dressing me up for dinner that one time because it was fun. I wished her the best and the same with Eugena.
Q) What was your favorite photo shoot?
A) I think my favorite was the stereotype shoot because it was a lot of fun on the set. Everyone was acting out their stereotypes and it was just a lot of fun.
Q) Have you maintained your new look?
A) No, I haven’t maintained the red. I kept the layers, but I haven’t really had the chance to re-dye it. I plan to, but I haven’t really done it yet.
Q) Since you were unsure if you wanted to be a model, what are you going to do now that you are no longer on the show?
A) I’m going to finish out my basketball season that I am in right now and this semester of college. Then, I think I am, actually, going to go for the modeling thing.
Q) Who do you think is going to win the show?
A) I hope my sister wins! If not, then I hope CariDee wins. My sister or CariDee are my picks.
Q) What would you like to say to your fans and supporters?
A) I’d say thanks for supporting me and, hopefully, I don’t let them down!
To learn more about Cycle 7’s Michelle Babin, visit her bio page here.
Source: Starry Constellation Magazine
Source: The CW / Charlie Altuna
