VE: So Miguel, how did you get discovered?

MP: Well I got discovered around 2001. It was random. I went to a Phat Farm casting with a friend and long story short, I got chosen and he didn’t.

VE: Sucks to be your friend lol. How did you know that modeling was right for you?

MP: I knew it was my calling was when I did my first job and I saw the check amount. I said “Ok, this is where I need to be.” Lol.

VE: Did you and your family always believe that you would be a success at modeling?

MP: My family always supported me as I made my decisions. They never once stopped me from anything. They always pushed me.

VE: I’ve been told by many male models that the industry for men is 10x harder than it is for women. Would you agree with that statement?

MP: For male models it’s not that bad. I think women models feel it more because it’s more emotional for them than it is for us. I’ve heard it all before “You’re too big, fat, skinny, ugly, tall.” Man I’ve heard it all and yet I never stopped. Now those same people are like “when are we gonna work together?” I’m like hell no! But you know… I kill them with kindness.

VE: True story lol. What is your ethnic background?

MP: I’m from Paterson, NJ and my parents are from Dominican Republic. So for all who don’t know I’m Dominican.

VE: Do you think that has any part to play in the types or amount of modeling
jobs you get?

MP: No, they always think I’m black, but I really don’t care what they type me as because I know who I am. The jobs I get are from my own personality and people always seem to notice me for that. It’s never about my ethnicity so that’s a good thing.

VE: What do you consider some of your biggest accomplishments to date?

MP: Tearing down barriers that they said I couldn’t. That’s why Jay-Z’s song “So Ambitious” is my favorite track because I know what he means.

VE: Essence.com model of the week. How does that feel?

MP: I feel overwhelmed. They shined their light on me because they understand a brother is just trying to better himself, that’s all. And by doing so, I’m just positive at all times. Even though I’ve been through hell and back, I’m great. And yes I’m very much single looking for my queen….where are you? I’m ready. Hello!

VE: Lol. Any fun facts or interesting things about you that want to share?

MP: I’m a damn clown. I love to make people laugh at all times. Everyone that knows me knows that. I do a lot of “ya mother” jokes. But hey, I grew up on In Living Color so I always got a dirty dozen.

VE: What projects are you working on or you want to get into?

MP: Acting. I’m attending school this fall so I will be focusing on that. Modeling will always be my first love so I will continue working and pushing on that.

VE: Where can people reach you online?

MP: You can find me on twitter.com/Mperdomo23 or myspace.com/Miguelperdomo23 or facebook. I’m also on seanjohn.com