While the term “nude model” may conjure images of Will Ferrell hilariously posing in the buff for an unsuspecting art class on “Saturday Night Live”, the world of nude modeling at NIU is much, much different.

According to Maria Winclawski, the secretary of the School of Art, the program enlists 20 students each semester to pose nude for 12 to 14 classes in the foundations and fine arts studio programs.

One male model, who asked to be anonymous to not jeopardize his future teaching career, posed for three years and said the $10-per-hour pay was all he needed to bare all to a class of students.

“Honestly, I needed the money,” he said. “It was relaxing and nice and I got to meditate for two hours while doing it.”

Debra Grall, an associate professor of drawing, teaches 200- and 400-level art classes involving life-drawing and nude models.

“We had one student that was shy about speaking to the public,” Grall said. “Once he modeled, he got over it.”

Those interested in modeling include different types of people: males and females, students and DeKalb residents. Students who pose can be from other majors, not just the art program. Grall noted that students majoring in theatre and dance as well as students from other countries are the most comfortable posers.

Any model who signs up to model must go through a screening process and is given a 30-day probation period, Winclawski said. If they make students in the class feel uncomfortable, they are not asked to come back.

“We talk to [models] to make sure they are aware of what they are getting into,” Winclawski said.

After the initial shock of nude modeling wears off, models, students and faculty agree modeling naked is simply a job.

“It’s very professional. They hire us to show the human form,” said the anonymous male model. “There is nothing uncomfortable about it; it’s just a job.”

“You get used to it after a while,” said senior marketing major Caleb Fischer, previously a studio arts major. “At first it’s like, ‘It’s a boob!’ … but then you get over it.”

Students interested in nude modeling should call 753-0717 or go to the art building, Room 414, to speak with Winclawski or a grad student.