Stats:

Measurements: 32B- 24-38

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Hometown: Born Fayettville, NC, Raised: Gaston, NC,  Hampton,VA Made me.

Favorite Rapper(s): J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar

Twitter: @theemarissad

Instagram: @theemarissad

 

Tell us a little bit about yourself. What do you do when you're not modeling?

Outside of modeling I am a full-time student at Virginia Commonwealth University. I am approaching senior year so if I’m not modeling or traveling my head is in the books. Outside of school and modeling, I just love to relax with friends, go out, and enjoy life. I'm a very outgoing person.

How did you get into the modeling industry?

I was asked by a close friend to meet up with a photographer she would be working with. She didn’t want to go alone so I came with her. By the end of the meeting he offered to shoot me just to play around with the camera. From there it was history. He’s been my main photographer and mentor ever since and nothing but great things have happened for me.

What would you say is the biggest misconception about you?

I think the biggest misconception is what my achievements will be. People began to limit my success as soon as I began to take pictures. Everyone assumed I’d just be a regular, half-naked model in videos, or hosting in clubs. I’m not here for that. I want more than shoe money and bag money. I like to express my talent outside of the box. Theres nothing wrong with hosting or featuring in a video of my taste but there’s more to be done when you have the spot light.

What would you say was your greatest accomplishment in modeling? What would you say was your greatest accomplishment outside of modeling?

The greatest accomplishment I’ve had is recognition. That goes from website features, being published in a magazine, or just having the opportunity to work with artists and photographers. That is the most grateful thing. Aside from modeling, deciding to stay in school was my greatest accomplishment. Many college students reach that point where you're loaded with stress, you have no motivation, and for me I was ready to drop out and join the military. But, I’m to dedicated and strong-willed to give up. Now look, I’m about to graduate and begin graduate school.

Who is your favorite Hip-Hop artist out now? Why?

J.Cole hands down. I love lyrical rap and I can relate to his lyrics in every way. It’s like he knows exactly what I’ve been through. He’s a great performer and the best thing about it is he’s stayed humble.

Who is your celebrity crush, and why?

Kendrick Lamar. He moves so quietly yet has this persona that says  “Yea, I’m the sh*t” that speaks so loudly. On top of that, he’s from the west coast; and I love the west coast.

What are your biggest turn-ons?

May sound goofy but slang is one of the top five turn-ons for me. I don’t know what it is about a man having his own little book of words he uses or how he says things but it’s really cute to me.

What are your biggest turn-offs?

People who boast or brag are a major turn off. Or the people you see who carry themselves as if they are better than the next person just because of their success. That’s got to be the worst because at some point of time in his or her life they didn’t have any of that. It’s just better to stay humble.

What qualities do you look for in a man?

When I think of the perfect man he’s tall, built, brown/darkskin. Has to have a sense of humor. An educated man with realistic goals that is very hungry to succeed.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years I will have a Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy. I am always a student first. As far as modeling, I hope to accomplish more features, magazines, and maybe some acting. I like to let the modeling thing shape itself.

What is a Fun Fact about yourself?

I still sleep with the teddy bear I was given at birth by my great-grandmother.

Any advice you would give women?

Always remember the term “quality over quantity.” I don’t work with every photographer and I don’t take every offer of business. This industry will judge you quickly off of the work you show so think wisely. One last thing, always remain humble and who you are, don’t let the fame and attention change you completely.

More From XXL