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After 10 cycles America's Next Top Model" is still the only reality show I watch religiously'. But with 129 contestants (as of 2008), it's only natural that I have my favorites amongst them.

In each cycle, I have few girls that I cheer for, wish the best for them and hope they will become America's Next Top Models. However if I were to name one model that stole my heart forever I would have to point to Elyse Sewell.

This cycle 1 contestant caught my eye at the very beginning. She was witty and had a huge distance towards this whole "top model" thing. And yet, she managed to get really good photos. Her intellect and style really set her apart from the rest of the house.

She was also a part of the first big scandal in "America's Next Top Model" history, when other contestants started to suspect she's anorexic.
True, with her tiny frame, one could think that, however Elyse denied it to the last moment. And defended herself both in panel and in front of the other contestants.

That was one of her qualities that I truly loved about her. She was never afraid of saying what's on her mind. She frequently butted heads with Robin, a conservative Christian who was also the oldest of the contestants. Elyse defended her own right to be an atheist and didn't allow herself to be bullied.

It was a real pleasure to watch Elyse take stunning photos and really found herself in the world of fashion. She took all the lessons they were trying to teach the girls during the competition and she put it all to good use. She finished as third and while I was slightly disappointed at the time, it turned out to be the best that could happen to her. "America's Next Top Model" provided her with portfolio and the experience with the competition allowed her to sign up with modeling agencies.

And while other contestants from various cycles struggle in the fashion industry and not all of them manage a career in modeling, Elyse is still signed with a modeling agency and has a great career, with a really busy schedule. Every time I read about her yet another gig in Hong-Kong, I smile and think that from all the contestants, she really deserves every job she books.

Yet she still manages to update her online journal (http://elysesewell.livejourna l.com) that allows her fans to be up to date with what's going on with her. Including some great backstage photos. And that makes her even more likable in my book.

Learn more about this author, Jane Rutherford.
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