Rishitha Koruturu is a mechanical engineer from Hyderabad who diversified into modeling after winning a beauty pageant. In conversation.

''I'm a simple Hyderabadi girl. I'm currently pursuing engineering and began modeling six months back. I entered the industry by participating in Trends Miss Hyderabad and won the title! That changed my life. I never thought I had it in me but winning that title boosted my confidence and made me optimistic, strong and determined to take up modeling seriously. Modelling is a passion and I love every bit of it, even the not so pretty parts!!

Why modeling? I think I've always wanted to do something different and I knew early in life I'm not someone who will settle for mediocre so a conservative career is something I would never go for; with engineering too, I chose mechanical engineering which girls don't usually opt for. I've always had an adventurous spirit! I love being challenged and I think being a model is a challenge; you need to constantly keep reinventing yourself and face new people and new situations; you need to be aware of everything around you and alert at all times because it is a competitive industry; unless you are hardworking and dedicated, somebody is always ready to take your place!

Modeling has changed me. There is a huge difference in the way I used to look to how I look today. I've worked hard to get this body; my height is an advantage but I wasn't fit when I started off; fitness has become a huge part of who I am now and it has made me healthier; I feel a lot more alive and energised because of my new lifestyle! I workout 5-6 days a week, mainly intense cardio and strength training. When it comes to diet I'm mindful of what I eat; that doesn't mean I starve! I keep it healthy but occasionally indulge myself in guilty pleasures like chocolate. That said, I feel models must complete their education. Basic qualifications is required!! I love modeling but if some day things fall apart, I can go back to science and engineering. I'm not calling this a backup plan because I am confident I'll make it in modelling! From my experience, I would advice new models to stop second guessing; step out into the real world, give it an honest shot and see if you have it in you. Unless you get out of your comfort zone and put yourself out there, you will never know.

Seems my hard work is paying off! I was recently part of television show, Top Model India which is still airing; it was an amazing experience and to get that kind of exposure early in the career… I couldn't be more fortunate! Jurors and mentors included Lisa haydon, Atul Kasbekar, Anaita Shroff Adajania and Shibani Dandekar and in each episode we worked with ace designers, photographers and stylists; it was a dream project! Looking forward, I have a couple of shows in Hyderabad and some shoots lined up. I'm waiting to see what else life has in store for me and excited about each day as it unfolds!''

— JASMEEN DUGAL