MYNIPPON:  So why don’t we start off by asking you to tell us how you ended up modeling in Japan?

Kimberly:  I love to travel and meet people from different cultures.  I originally came to the island "DOD employed" and decided to stay for a little while longer.  It can get a little hot here, but I enjoy the beaches.

MYNIPPON:  Obviously you must have heard a dozen stories about Japan and the challenges that foreigners face when they show up in Japan - totally clueless about the culture and social norms and practically no knowledge of the language.  How did you prepare yourself prior to leaving for Japan?

Kimberly: I tried to learn as much of the language as possible from books and read up on the culture.  Both differences and similarities are very interesting.  The Japanese people here have worked hard to learn English and they do a great job.  So, it has made adjusting a lot easier for me.  (Related: Maria Gara)

MYNIPPON:  We all know that being in Japan can be a challenge in the beginning.  So how did you cope with the initial obstacles?  Do you have any advice for other people like you?

Kimberly:  It can be a challenge getting used to the rules of the road, especially.  My advice to that would be to practice patience and "Look out for the motorcycles."  Also, American women are used to aggressive men in the States and you will get that from American men here on the island too.  I personally would like to be entertained by a Japanese man and they are more than likely not going to approach me, unfortunately.  My advice to foreign women would be to "get aggressive and let them know that you may be interested in getting to know them better".  (Related article:  How to find a Japanese boyfriend)

MYNIPPON:  You appear to have a very interesting background and we understand that you are currently working on a few exciting assignments.  Could you please share with our members more details about your background and the assignment that you have in Japan?

Kimberly:  Well, I am working with a photographer right now on both our portfolios.  I applied for a modeling job with an American civilian and sent him some pictures.  With the Japanese clothing being so small, I am limited in my options here.   My specialty is modeling for lingerie.  (Related article:  Japanese lingerie)

MYNIPPON:  What is life like for a foreign model in Japan?  We are constantly being asked by girls from Eastern Europe and Russia how they can make a living in Japan as a model.  What would you advise them?

Kimberly:  As I mentioned, it has been a little harder for me in Japan to model.  I would advise them not to get discouraged.  The Japanese women seem to naturally be smaller.  Do not give up.  It really just depends on what they are looking for at the time.  Take pride in yourself, and your womanly bodies.  I am 5'5, 125lbs, 38D, Size 6 in American clothing and I was called "full size" by an agency.  It really offended me at the time, but I quickly got over it.  Foreign women just have sultry shapes (not that Japanese women do not).  Do not base your career on one person’s discouraging comment or opinion.

MYNIPPON:  As is very clear to all of us, you are extremely beautiful and have a body to be proud of.  We are sure our female readers would like to hear from you the secrets of how you are able to maintain yourself? 

Kimberly:  I love to workout and run.  I also eat smaller portions at meals.  Believe me, it takes work and motivation.  I love Xenadrine.  It gives me lots of energy and takes away my appetite.

MYNIPPON:  Do you have any other tips for our female members about fashion and style?

Kimberly:  I purchase a lot of my clothes online from the United States.  My favorites are The Gap, 3 Wishes Lingerie, and many others.

MYNIPPON:  A lot of women want to know what can they learn from Japanese women so that they can dress in more style.  What do you suggest to them?  

Kimberly:  "In Style" magazine has good tips.  You can also get some suggestions from watching TV programs such as "Friends."