Modelling work didn't stop me getting an A1 in art

GEORGIA SALPA:MODEL GEORGIA Salpa was almost a fashion designer, and needed the Leaving Cert to get into the London College of Fashion. However, modelling is one of those careers that doesn't wait, so despite doing a good Leaving she parked college.

“I enjoyed school but I was a bit of a messer. I went to Pembroke School in Ballsbridge. It’s just a small house; there were only nine of us in sixth year. My best friends from school are still my best friends now.”

The small class and the supportive atmosphere helped Georgia in her final year of school. "I'd just started modelling during the Leaving Cert year and was doing shoots for FHM. So I was flying to London and back all the time. But I passed my Leaving Cert and did really well, so I was very happy in the end."

Her results probably came as a relief to her parents, who had concerns about how their daughter’s part-time job would affect her studies. “They didn’t want me to only do modelling – they wanted me to stay in school – so I’m actually really happy that I did my Leaving Cert. It’s really important.”

It turns out her high profile modelling career was not her first choice and in the future, she may yet be Georgia Salpa, fashion mogul: “I got an A1 in honours art. It’s what I really wanted to do. I got into the London College of Fashion, where I planned to do merchandising and fashion. Because of the modelling, I never really went on with it, but it’s great to have it. I know I can go back to it sometime in the future. I’d love to be involved more in the fashion world, definitely.”

Despite turning down college, Georgia didn’t immediately jump into the fashion industry. Instead, she saw the world, with a few friends and a rucksack to keep her company. “When I left school I really wanted to travel, so I did. Over two years, I went to 35 countries.”

She will soon hit the screens in TV3's Celebrity Salon. Her stint in the university of life goes on, but Georgia still places great value on the fact that she did the Leaving and has it squirrelled away for future use. She advises students to give the exams the attention they deserve. "Just don't stress about it."

TOMORROW: Minister for Education Ruairí Quinn on his Leaving Cert in Blackrock College