If you’re ever in the same room as Chrissy Teigen, chances are you’ll hear her contagious laughter before you spot her. The Utah native boats not only a mixture of exotic looks, thanks to her Thai and Norwegian heritage, but also a bubbly and upbeat personality that’s impossible not to love.

Chrissy launched her modeling career after a chance spotting while working at a surf shop, and before she made her big debut as a SI girl, she posed for Billabong and Victoria’s Secret.

But her major moment was all thanks to a serendipitous introduction of Andy Roddick and John Legend at the Superbowl, when Chrissy met Brooklyn Decker and the two became fast friends. Brooklyn then suggested that SI editors meet Chrissy, and from there her Sports Illustrated career began. Chrissy made her Sports Illustrated Swimsuit debut as a rookie in the 2010 issue, and immediately stole the hearts of fans and editors alike.

As a former broadcast journalism major, Chrissy’s transitioned her on camera talent in the modeling world in a multitude of ways. She served as an on camera host backstage at the Beach Bunny Swimwear runway show in Miami, interviewing the Kardashian sisters and models, and paired with Mario Lopez on Extra.

You’re likely to find her Tweeting hilarious commentary about her daily life, from photoshoots around the world to her puppy Puddy to her boyfriend, John Legend.