By Alexa Nolasco, Oct. 22, 2024
For Leyi Zhou, life in Los Angeles is a blend of circuit boards and camera flashes. After moving to the Unites States from China at 16, Zhou has been balancing her studies in electrical engineering at Cal Poly Pomona with her growing career in modeling.
Zhou started at a community college in the Bay Area and later transferred to CPP. Even with disruptions like the pandemic, she kept pushing forward and chose to move to Los Angeles because it felt more diverse and exciting than San Francisco.
Zhou’s modeling journey began when a salon owner in downtown San Francisco asked her to model for a hairstyle campaign. Though she didn’t accept the offer right away, it planted the idea of modeling as a serious interest. Over time, she began pursuing this new passion.
“I love the creativity it brings,” Zhou said. “On set, I get to express myself through different outfits and poses, showing multiple sides of my personality.”
Managing both school and modeling has been challenging for Zhou. She spends weekends attending castings and photo shoots, which can be tiring but also rewarding. She’s learned to carefully choose projects that fit her schedule.
“It’s all about setting boundaries and planning,” Zhou said. “I make sure to keep Sundays as a rest day, which helps me recharge.”
Maurice Samuels, an industry friend Zhou works with, has seen how dedicated Zhou is.
“Leyi’s balancing act between Cal Poly Pomona and her modeling gigs is impressive,” Samuels said. “She’s got a solid work ethic, and she makes time for both. It’s clear she’s committed to her education while still growing her modeling career.”
Samuels pointed out that Zhou stands out because of her authentic and natural energy, as her genuine personality comes through in her photos, which makes her unique in the modeling world.
However, the modeling world can be tough, and Zhou has experienced that firsthand.
“It’s competitive and sometimes even cruel,” Zhou said. “You face rejection and criticism, but I remind myself that everyone has their unique beauty, and I continue to be confident in my style.”
Her advice for aspiring models is to stand up for yourself, be careful with contracts and keep pushing forward.
Alejandro Ruiz, a photographer who first met Zhou during a photo session with the hat designer “The Queen of Glamour,” quickly noticed her professionalism.
“Leyi always gives 100% and covers a wide range of specialties,” Ruiz said.
Besides modeling, Zhou has a plan to combine her engineering skills with her interest in business. She’s interested in angel investing, which means supporting new tech ideas and startups.
“I want to support innovative ideas and help them come to life,” Zhou said. “My background in electrical engineering gives me an edge in understanding tech startups.”
By investing, she hopes to connect her technical skills with her passion for business and keep exploring different projects, including modeling.
From adjusting to a new culture to balancing school and modeling, Zhou wants to inspire others to follow their passions.
For those who want to try modeling while studying or working, Zhou’s advice is simple.
“Be brave, be cautious and be confident,” Zhou said. “Most importantly, don’t let anyone else define your worth.”
Feature image courtesy of Leyi Zhou
