ChiStyle: Johnny

By Carlos Ferreira | Fashion Reporter, Photography

As the weather begins to finally warm up in Chicago, PdM Models begin to enjoy the sea, sun, and sand found on our man-made beaches. Johnny, 22, of Peoria, Illinois, remembers coming to Chicago every summer to spend time with his aunt and uncle in the Lincoln Park community. "I was about 12 when I first came to Chicago on my own. Some of my fondest memories include grabbing a Chicago hotdog while watching a baseball game with my cousins."

These days, Johnny is not simply visiting Chicago, he has become a very notable piece of the ChiTown puzzle. A former student at DePaul University, he is proud to state that he dropped out before the tuition became a burden. "I went (to DePaul) for a year and decided it wasn't for me," he mentioned with a big grin. "Don't get me wrong, nice school, but I was never the 'study type' per se."

Johnny dropped out of college to starts a business with a family friend. "We primarily work in construction, landscaping, and development projects across Illinois, and I love it." When asked if he regrets having the chance to gain an authentic college experience, he laughed. "Honestly, an experience is what you make of it: college just wasn't for me."

While he admits that college would have been an "easy way" to make friends, learn about new perspectives, and make useful connections, Johnny is an avid believer in making the most of every experience. "I believe in karma and I believe in God. I am a full-believer in bringing a good, healthy perspective to the table no matter what the cause. If you don't put a good smile and a great attitude for the world to see, you're going to miss many interesting opportunities."

Currently single, he admits that a workaholic personality often prevents him from finding the right girl. "I love women, but I'd rather work my butt off now, develop useful skills, and hit the gym. Women are gorgeous and I love them, but I won't make the best boyfriend by simply being idle: I want to be a good man for my woman."

Johnny is in and out of Chicago for diverse work projects, but is available for modeling opportunities in the Chicagoland area. For more info on appearances and rate, contact PdM directly.