MTV’s “True Life” is making a casting call for backpackers who plan to spend their summer in Europe.
“‘True Life’ covers all sorts of topics,” said Scott Pearson, STA branch manager. “People who apply must be willing to let people follow them around. They will choose people at random from a couple of various trips. They will be their shadow. They want people to be dramatic. Hopefully, someone will get in a fight with their friends.”
Backpackers going to Europe from May through July are encouraged to submit a photo and answer several questions on the application.
Questions on the application include a trip’s purpose, its uniqueness and travel plans.
“MTV wants serious people who have a trip already planned,” Pearson said. “Some of the people may even already have their tickets.”
STA has 130 offices nationwide serving schools who are also competing for the slots on “True Life.”
“Some cities may have six to seven schools for one office,” Pearson said. “MTV realizes if students want to backpack in Europe, they’ll come to us.”
Applicants need to make themselves unique in order to make an impression and get attention.
“MTV always looks for someone who is loud and out there,” Pearson said. “They want to see someone who sticks out in a crowd. Students should submit a crazy picture not a driver’s license photo, anything to grab attention.
“If you see the other shows, they want someone who is not the norm,” he said. “They want someone who will be entertaining to watch.”
Popular backpacking areas in Europe are also the hot tourist spots. According to Pearson, places like London, Amsterdam and Rome are the top locations.
If they have not already booked their flights, backpackers should book before mid-June and should throw out the itinerary.
“Most backpackers play it by ear,” Pearson said. “We’ll usually schedule the first night or two for them. We book their first hostel and sometimes one on their way back.”
“True Life” applications are due April 18. Applicants must be 18 to 25 years old and should expect to spend four to five weeks backpacking in Europe. Applicants should e-mail their information to [email protected].
