A: Our students our usually split between those who have a show in mind, a show that is on the air already, and those students who want to create their own reality TV show. Many people desire to be on the Real World, Survivor and Amazing Race. We had one student fly in from Oklahoma to learn how to better his chances at getting on Survivor. He had applied fourteen times and never went on to get cast. He said he learned so much of what he was doing wrong and was excited for the next round of Survivor auditions. He also got media exposure through the school on CBS which he will use for his audition tape. Also so many people have great show ideas that they want to star in or produce and we help nurture and develop those ideas at the school as well. We also spend a great deal of time talking about life after your show appearance. It used to be if you didn't win the show you were forgotten. But the game has changed and winning personalities have a life after the show that can actually create a career.
Q: In your opinion, how real is reality TV?
A: Reality TV has the potential to be as real as the people who are on it. The cast members have to remember that they are the editor, director, producer, actor and writer of their role. They control their actions and at the New York Reality TV School we teach people how to get more airtime, build fans, shine brightly and further their potential on the show and after. The producers and directors are always working to create situations for the cast members to work in and many people think that that is not real. We have to understand that that is the reality of the genre. There are set ups and challenges and tests and situations that real people are put into. At the school, we provide information and training that will produce stronger cast members who have a better shot at winning and making the most out of each opportunity.
