Hmm, I want to model too and I've been doing research on how to go about it since August (but haven't had the guts to go for it yet haha). My advice is not to join models.com/onemodelplace like sites right now. Try sending pics to agencies first, but only valid agencies. You aren't 5'7"+ so you might not be able to get in with one of the big agencies, but try maybe a local agency. It doesn't have to be right in your town, just within a few hours. Don't get pro shots, most people say it isn't worth it and agencies would rather see natural looking polaroids. I think modelresource.ca has some decent tips on it. I'm sure there are people more qualified than me (which isn't hard to be) here who can give better tips.