When University of Memphis junior Aaron Robinson received the email declaring him a H.I.M-istry spokesmodel, the feeling was "unbelievable," he said.
"I never even considered modeling," he said. "A lady at church asked me, ‘Why are you not in radio or TV?' I tried it and I'm glad. She saw something in me that I didn't see in my self."
H.I.M-istry produces skin care products for males that can be purchased over their website or in department stores.
Robinson and four others were chosen out of 500 males nationwide for modeling positions with the company. The contest began five months ago and contestants were allowed to submit just one photo of themself for the competition.
"It was a great accomplishment just being in the top 12 of the nation, and I was happy with just that," he said. "I'm thankful that I've made it this far."
H.I.M-istry recommended Robinson join the contest after seeing an online ModelMayhem profile he created about a year ago.
Robinson's photographer and manager Demetrius Morgan said that he's a gifted and talented individual.
"He's a breath of fresh air sometimes," Morgan said. "Aaron gives off this energy that you can't explain. He's outgoing, there's nothing he won't do."
As a H.I.M-istry spokesmodel, Robinson will showcase the company's products, attend events and model for commercials.
"He'll be selling the product as a model. H.I.M-istry will utilize his beauty and talent," Morgan said. "Hopefully we'll go global. We don't want to be top five, we want to be number one."
Robinson, who is majoring in organizational leadership and is the vice president of adult and commuter services at The U of M, said his school participation helps him with his oral skills, speaking in public and dealing with nervousness.
Joy Stout, director of adult and commuter services at The U of M, said that she thinks it shows how much Robinson likes to broaden his horizons by competing and winning the H.I.M-istry model position.
"It's a real joy to work with him and he works very hard," Stout said. "He has good follow-through in completing his responsibilities."
Robinson said he wants to be humble and that his peers and family are excited for him.
He said that he's grateful for the encouragement.
Robinson keeps a particular photo of himself by his bed that helps him stay positive every day.
"Its inspiration for me to keep believing in myself," he said.
