"The Sky Is The Limit For Me!" - An Interview with America's Next Top Model 3's Toccara

RNO: Since your time on the show, have you been able to have some kind of contact with other plus sized models to find out what their opinion of the industry is?

Toccara: I've spoke to some people, and most people have said to me that it's a shame there was a plus sized model on the show because they never have a chance to win. I don't really care because it was a great experience and I got so much publicity because of it. I didn't need to win to tell you the truth because it was a stepping stone for me. I can't even tell you what the two previous winners of the show are doing, but I can guarantee you everyone will know what Toccara is doing!

RNO: With the comments that Ann had been receiving, did you think that she was going home, or did you pretty much know it was you?

Toccara: Unfortunately, I knew it was me going home. I didn't want it to be, and didn't give up. Honestly though, with the comments Ann was getting, I wouldn't have been surprised if she went, but when it was me, I wasn't surprised either.

RNO: What is your opinion on the way Cassie's eating habits were portrayed? Do you think it was fair to hint around trying to say she had an eating disorder when it was never proven?

Toccara: That whole thing was blown way out of proportion, and people were just picking on her and looking for a reason to bring it up. The whole thing wasn't a secret - Cassie told everyone that she had issues with eating in the past. When Tyra said she needed help, Cassie declined. I feel that if she felt she needed help, she would have taken it. Cassie was much stronger than she was given credit for.

RNO: Which part of doing the show was the toughest? Was it the cameras, living with the other girls, or the long hours?

Toccara: There honestly wasn't anything tough about the show. Well, maybe the eating. I'm a big girl and a big girl has to eat! I wasn't able to eat as much as I would have liked because it seemed like everyone was staring!

RNO: Do you feel it's fair to have challenges, like the one last week, where you were at an obvious disadvantage?

Toccara: You know what the hard thing with interviews is? I don't want to be labeled by people as JUST a plus sized girl! I can do exactly the same things a "skinny girl" can do. I should just be expected to do Lane Bryant - I can do GAP too! I don't want any special treatment, but on the same level, how can I be expected to be on the same level as the other girls, when Europeans don't even make my size. They need to get on that!

RNO: What's the one piece of advice you can give to girls applying for future seasons? Not just to plus sized girls, but to everyone?

Toccara: I'll be cheesy and say shoot for the moon! You know what though - if it's meant for you, don't give up because nobody can tell you no. I was told no before I auditioned, but I didn't give up and look how I did!

RNO: What are your plans after the show wraps up? Do you still want to follow the modeling path?

Toccara: Modeling, of course! I'm going to be the first black plus sized supermodel! I'm going to do endorsements, movies, speaking - everything!

RNO: Is there anything you would like to add, Toccara?

Toccara: Not really Phil, but thank you! I can't believe you got me to say something about the other girls! Haha!

RNO:Thanks, Toccara!

Phil Kural is a recent graduate from Temple University, with a degree in journalism. You can reach him at pkural@gmail.com with any feedback that you may have.

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