Born in Buffalo, New York in 1984, Jessica White grew up hardened by a tough neighborhood. By the age of 12, White had started partying and drinking, and by 13, she was smoking marijuana on a regular basis. Her rebellious childhood came to a head when, spurred by a catty argument with another girl, she attacked and severely damaged the girl's car with a baseball bat.

Fortunately, midway through adolescence, White had already developed into a full-figured woman. Modeling scouts noticed her and offered her ample opportunities to make money -- if she moved to Paris. With visions of fat checks and fame in her head, White decided to make the move to the City of Lights.

jessica white gets her first modeling contract

Starting a new life in a big city was not easy, but White quickly got wrapped up in the busy world of modeling. She received a contract with IMG agency and perfected her skills in preparation for upcoming photo shoots and appearances. White's first modeling credits include work for Cover Girl, an appearance in the Spring 2001 issue of Chloe and campaign work for Gap's holiday marketing blitz.

When White returned to New York -- and got settled in

York City -- she quickly got work in several of the city's fashion shows during Fashion Week. The dark-complexioned beauty then appeared in two Harper's Bazaar pictorials, as well as an edition of Teen Vogue. By 2002, White was one of the most talked about models in the city and in the industry at large.

jessica white in sports illustrated's swimsuit edition

Despite her success, White needed more face time in order to elevate herself to the level of supermodel. This boost came in the way of Sports Illustrated, as the sports magazine turned to her for a feature in the 2003 edition of their Swimsuit Issue. White quickly made headlines for this appearance, as well as for rumors that she had a torrid affair with a still-unnamed celebrity, and she finally achieved the level of fame she had desired for years.

In 2004 and 2005, White returned to SI's Swimsuit Issue, becoming the first African-American model to appear in three consecutive editions of the annual feature. A hot photo shoot for King magazine and work for Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren's Polo solidified White's position as a versatile model with widespread appeal.

Given White's youth and quick rise to fame, there is little doubt that she will accomplish much more in the future. If her sexy photo shoots ever slow down, tabloids and fans can always rely on her aggressive spark and freaky attitude for entertainment. Clearly, White is a born

youth and quick rise to fame, there is little doubt that she will accomplish much more in the future. If her sexy photo shoots ever slow down, tabloids and fans can always rely on her aggressive spark and freaky attitude for entertainment. Clearly, White is a born