What comes to mind when you think of models? Do you think of unfair stereotypes? How about smart, strong and driven? Those last words describe a young model from Texas. Her story is one of passion and self-confidence. Those are two qualities any person, model or not, would love to possess.

Succeeding in the modeling world hasn't always been a sure thing for Fallon, a fifteen year old model from Texas. Fallon's hopes for becoming a model were dashed early on when she was told she was at least half a foot shorter than the five foot eight height requirement for runway models.

Fiery Fallon didn't let that break her spirit. With the help of her mother Lynne, a former model, Fallon learned how to walk and talk the business of modeling. With time, Fallon soon shot up in stature and met the height requirement.

In 2003, Fallon attended an open casting call for "John Robert Powers," a talent agency known for working with stars such as Hilary Duff and Jessica Biel. She was accepted into the school, where she spends long hours training and chasing her dream. "If it's really someone's dream to model," says Fallon, "he or she should never let it go, no matter what anyone says."

Fallon shies away from over the top clothes and wild makeup; instead she chooses the natural beauty route. She stays grounded by working hard in school and volunteering.

What's one of the best lessons she's learned since she's been modeling? "To know that everyone is beautiful. If you don't respect yourself, no one else will." True words and well spoken.

Brock, a fifteen year old from Florida, is pursuing his dream of becoming a professional singer. Brock classifies his music as pop/rock and in one word describes himself as, "optimistic." This young artist says he wants to be a musician because, "It's what I love. It's in my heart and I want to do it. If I can make a career out of it, then why not?" He plays the piano, doesn't lip sync, co-writes his music and dances. Sounds like our kind of guy!

Brock says he's just doing what he loves and he doesn't take anything for granted. He chose to homeschool for high school, since his busy work schedule clashed too much with regular school hours.

He spends most weekdays training in Orlando, with his day ranging from vocal work to choreography followed by piano lessons.

The singing bug bit Brock at an early age. When he was five, Brock first performed at his aunt's wedding.

Among his numerous gigs, at the age of ten, Brock opened for then newcomer Christina Aguilera in Jacksonville, Florida. He met her backstage and recalls she was "really cool and extremely nice."

A strong work ethic and a good sense of responsibility keeps the Sunshine State teen grounded. Brock knows the road to success isn't always easy, but with enough drive, he knows he'll achieve his goals.

Brock and Fallon may be in different time zones and pursuing different goals, but they're both on the track to success, something that often only comes along once in a lifetime.

- Jessica Burkhart, Associate Editor