(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Selena Gomez believes being reduced to tears by a casting director when she was 11 helped her career.

The American actress-and-singer has at the tender age of 18 gained valuable experience in the showbiz industry. Looking back on her time starting out, Selena recalls some harsh words directed at her from a hardnosed industry veteran.

When I was 11, I had a casting director say to me, Youre not strong enough to carry your own show. Youre not strong enough to be part of the Disney Channel. I cried all the time afterwards but I just kept on working hard, she told Top of the Pops magazine.

This determined attitude has ensured success with appearances in films, important roles in television and a solid music career. The Hannah Montana star believes if it wasnt for her single minded determination to ignore all doubters she could have easily failed.

Whenever you have a goal, whether you want to be a doctor or a singer, people will find a way to bring you down. I always tell people that if you have something youre really passionate about, dont let anyone tell you that you cant do it, she added. (C) Cover Media