Ariel Meredith

AGE: 24

BORN: Shreveport, La.

ALSO MODELED FOR: Dolce & Gabbana, H&M, Gap, V Magazine

REACTION TO BEING IN SI: I was speechless. Being in the Swimsuit Issue has been a dream of mine. I've always followed all the girls in previous issues, and now I'm one of them. It's an honor.

IS MODELING REALLY THAT HARD? Yes! The schedule is extremely demanding. I have to be prepared to fly all over the world at a moment's notice. The hours can be quite long as well, but of course it's worth every minute.

AT WHAT POINT DO YOU KNOW YOU'VE MADE IT? When I see myself on the cover of SPORTS ILLUSTRATED.

WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL SEXY: Being in a tank top and jeans, but I also like to get dressed up.

WHAT MEAL FROM HOME YOU MISS MOST: Gumbo! I'm a Louisiana girl.

PEOPLE SAY I LOOK LIKE: I haven't heard anybody say who I look like. I guess I just look like myself.

Top by COOLCHANGE ($187)