Meet Islander Victoria Vesce
Victoria Vesce // @victoriavesce
Tell me a little about yourself?
I grew up on a bison farm and played basketball. I was going to college for it, but I decided to take a different avenue and started dancing. I became a NBA Dancer for the Charlotte Hornets from 2014-2017. I was able to meet Michael Jordan and represent the NBA at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In 2017, I was diagnosed with a rare brain and neck tumor. I went through surgery and radiation treatments at Duke University Hospital. My brain tumor left me half deaf, but I was/am still full of passion and heart. That time of my life cut my NBA career a little shorter than I wanted, but it led me to pursue my passion for justice and law. I’m now finishing my last year of law school in Charleston.
How did you get into modeling?
Honestly growing up in a small rural North Carolina town, modeling was not a career path for most. When I was 18, I entered my first pageant. I had never done my own hair and makeup in my life, so it was truly an eye opening experience in the beauty industry. From there, I got a Princess Diaries makeover, was scouted and started modeling. I’ve been able to work with a lot of cool companies and traveled coast to coast modeling. I’ve been doing it on and off, it’s been a nice breather from law school.
What made you decide to go to law school?
Before I was diagnosed with my tumor, I had a change in career plans. Intitally, I thought I wanted to be a sportscaster, but I was getting burnt out. However, I knew I wanted to help people and bring justice. (I’m low key obsessed with Wonder Woman, so being a real life Wonder Woman, in my opinion, would be pursuing law). It was an abrupt start with law school after my treatments, but I’m almost to the end!
Through all of your different experiences/jobs, do you have a favorite?
It’s hard to pick one, but one of my favorites is with Mountain Khakis and shooting in Asheville with my dog. She even made the cover of the catalogue! I am a proud dog mom! Also, I have been to a lot of NASCAR events with the Monster Energy Girls, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with them was amazing. The NBA provided me with some of the greatest experiences, nothing could top the Rio Olympics and dancing in the China Global Games, and being able to meet the G.O.A.T Michael Jordan! In addition to modeling, I did a summer law school abroad in Spain, it was epic. I loved the euro beer that comes with tapas...oh, and law school classes were fun too!
What would you tell someone who has many different passions?
It’s good to have a focus but do not let the world or others limit you. You CAN do it all if you want. Don’t put yourself in a box, and then say I can only do this. Pursue all your passions and don’t live life with any regrets.
What made you become an Island Ambassador?
I love the brand and the energy behind it. It has feel good vibes which is exactly what everyone needs in 2020!
What is your favorite thing about Island Coastal Lager?
The taste is smooth and crisp. It’s perfect for a day at the beach, paddleboarding with my dog, or even a nice fall hike in the Appalachians. The people who work at Island Brands are truly one of a kind and make you feel at home which honestly makes drinking ICL even better!
Last question, what is one thing you want people to know about you?
It’s cliché to say, but I’m more than just a pretty face. I have a lot of depth, and I love to make new friends (even though I’m a little shy)! After going through the really dark period of my life of being extremely healthy to randomly having a tumor, taught me A LOT about myself. I learned that life is short and you aren’t promised tomorrow. Therefore, make the one life you’re given EPIC - live your life the way you want, live your dreams, love your family and friends, and love who you are.
