Jun Hasegawa I'm grateful to my mother for broadening my horizons from a narrow world! If you keep on dreaming, it will definitely come true! I'm strict with myself so that I don't get drowned in the sweetness of this world.

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Jun Hasegawa

Born June 5, 1986. Born in New Hampshire, she moved to the Big Island of Hawaii at the age of two. Her father is American, of Irish and French descent, and her mother is Japanese. She was scouted at the age of 14 and has since been active as a model in Japan. With her unusual looks and cheerful personality, she has recently been in high demand not only for magazines but also for TV and commercials. Her first photo essay, "kauluwehi," is currently on sale and has received rave reviews.

What inspired you to pursue modeling?

"In my case, I was scouted. I had dreamed of working as a model since I was little, so I was happy when I was approached. However, when I found out that the job would be in Japan, I was worried about entering that world. Japan felt like a very distant country, and I knew nothing about Japanese culture. But my mother told me, 'If you stay in Hawaii, you'll only be successful in a narrow world. Put yourself in a wider world and gain a broader perspective,' so I decided to enter this world. Now I'm able to learn so many new things, and I really feel like I'm growing. I'm very grateful to my mother."

So, is there anything you keep in mind while working?

"In the world of modeling, you're pampered by everyone and tend to become self-centered. Sometimes you can be late and not get told off, and even if you make a mistake, you're somehow forgiven. But in reality, that doesn't work when you go out into the world. So I'm strict with myself so I don't get swept up in the sweetness of this world."

You're very serious! On the other hand, what do you like about this job?

"It's a lot of fun to travel to different countries for overseas location shoots and learn about the local culture and language. However, sometimes I find it difficult to wear clothes regardless of the season. For example, when we have to go to the beach to shoot in the cold winter, it's tough and difficult."

Was there anything that surprised you when you first came to Japan?

"What surprised me the most was that the image of a woman that is popular in Japan is quite different from the image of a woman that is popular in Hawaii or America. For example, in America, a strong and sexy woman is mainstream, but in Japan, a cute and feminine woman is more popular. So during my first shoot in Japan, I posed in a really cool and sexy way, and the staff told me, 'No, no! Look cuter!' (laughs)"

What do you do on your days off?

"I like to relax by lighting candles in my room and listening to music with the sound of waves that evokes Hawaii. I also like to soak in the bath while listening to music. I like music of all genres, both Western and Japanese. I also like enka, and I listen to songs by Misora ​​Hibari, which surprises people around me. I also like to go to the movies with friends and go to the club at night."

You recently published your first photo essay, "kauluwehi." How was it?

"In my normal work, I focus on how to make my clothes look cool, but for this photo essay I had to express myself as I am in Hawaii, where I was born and raised, so at first I felt very embarrassed. But I was able to do my best with the thought that I wanted to convey to everyone the great things about Hawaii, which I love. I think I've created a great book."

Finally, please give us a message for the students!

"I want to go to university too! I'm jealous of campus life. But don't forget to hold on to your dreams. Like in the movie "Pursue the Happiness," if you have a dream, no matter what the situation, things will definitely move in the right direction. Believe that everything has meaning, and try all kinds of things!"

From forGirls October 2008 issue