Thirteen young women demonstrate if they have what it takes to make it in the high-stress world of modeling in the 12th cycle of AMERICAS NEXT TOP MODEL. The top prize: a contract with Elite Model Management, a Seventeen Magazine cover and fashion spread, and a $100,000 deal with CoverGirl cosmetics. Starting out in New York City, the aspiring models are put to the test over the 13 week Cycle. They visit Ellis Island for a shoot inspired by immigrants from the early 1900s; board a sightseeing bus and pose as brokers, nannies, artists and tourists; and attempt to strike the right facial expression to recreate Tyras famous poses. During the international leg in Sao Paulo, Brazil - the first time the show is shot in South America - the young women must pose as cultural icon Carmen Miranda, dress as exotic birds and learn to dance the samba. Originally broadcast in Spring 2009, this cycle also marked the last season famed model Paulina Porizkova served as a judge. 1