America's Next Top Model (ANTM) runner up, Allison Harvard, smiles despite being a runner up. And Now, she's on the other side of her career as a host and a judge of a modelling competition.

"I am keeping an open mind" she said. "I'm done with competing."

On her experiences as judge, she kept on saying, "It's amazing. It's really exciting to be on the other side of a reality competition as opposed to competing. I think it's a good thing for the contestants to have someone like me because I sympathize with what they're going through."

The American artist and fashion model from Houston, Texas is now busy counting her blessings and would willingly accept endorsements and modelling in the Philippines.

The Texas-born Allison's enjoying the Philippines since October 16 as a model, a product endorser, host, and even a judge and now learning few Filipino words like ako, tayo, and mahal kita. The model seems to be so determined to learn more. She's also planning to have a Filipino tutor next time.

"I think they saw a common ground.  Although I'm with the modelling world, I'm quiet and or shy. People connect with being a little bit introverted. One of the misconceptions (about being a model) is you have to be loud to be the center of attention," said Allison.

"A little mystery is good," she added.

Allison is now focusing on what this life has to offer and not afraid to be herself. She wants to share this kind of self-esteem to other aspiring models.

 "Keep going with what you want to do.  Don't let things affect you personally. Keep your heart in the right place and have a strong backbone. Don't be afraid to be yourself. Keep your values and who you are in this industry, which can have the tendency to run over a lot of people."

Seems like being 'runner-up' is not really bad at all. And will depend on the ability to accept failures in the things not really meant for you- that's what the Allison has that make her more appealing to others.