FIU SURVIVOR

S1 E9 Survivor FIU: 4 College Students Fight For $100

In Episode 9 of Survivor FIU: 3 Hurricanes VS 1 Sunshine. Which castaway will take home the prize and the title of FIU's very first Sole Survivor?

Most Recently Eliminated Castaway

After a hard-fought loss in the first immunity challenge of the season, a storm was brewing in the Hurricanes Tribe as they had a surprise of their own in store: Samuel Espina, the 19-year-old Architecture major from Caracas, Venezuela, became the first player voted out of the game.

Samuel's Eliminated Statistics

0Team/Individual Immunities won
4Votes cast against
3rdPre-season predicted placement
3Days lasted in the game up until elimination

Cast

Cast

Have what it takes to win?

Applications for the third season (Spring 2027) of FIU Survivor are coming soon! Are you ready to have the most fun semester of your college career? Are you a competitive, strategic, intelligent FIU student? Keep an eye out for when casting begins!

Production Team Information
Students who are interested have the ability to join the crew and production team. Crew members help set up the challenges, film the video footage that will be used when editing the YouTube series, and help with the running and functioning of the game. Check out this link for the Crew Application, or this one for the Production Application.

About
FIU Survivor is a student-run reality game show inspired by Survivor on CBS. Launched in 2024, our mission is to create the most engaging and competitive experience for players, produce a high-quality show for the audience, and determine which students have what it takes to become the true Sole Survivor of FIU. Players will take part in mental, physical, and social challenges twice a week, along with tribal councils, in a semester-long competition that ends with one student claiming the title of Sole Survivor and a cash prize.

Outwit, Outplay, Outlast
Contestants of Survivor @ FIU experience a unique, hands-on opportunity to develop a wide range of valuable skills that extend far beyond the game itself.The strategic nature of the game fosters critical thinking, adaptability, and emotional intelligence, as students must navigate shifting alliances, solve problems under pressure, and make calculated decisions in high-stakes situations.
This experience challenges students to think strategically, collaborate authentically, and demonstrate leadership. These qualities can help prepare you to thrive in any future career path.

Production Team

Meet the faces behind FIU Survivor, committed to excellence, collaboration, and the effective execution of FIU Survivor's mission.

  • Catalina Rodriguez Kretz
  • Dylan Teboe
  • Jessie Honeycutt
  • Crew Members

    Crew members play a vital role in ensuring the success of Survivor @ FIU, serving as the backbone that keeps the entire production running smoothly. In addition to setting up challenges, filming the video footage for the YouTube series, and assisting with the overall execution of the game, crew members contribute to creating an engaging and professional experience for both participants and viewers. Their work behind the scenes helps maintain the energy, organization, and excitement that define the series.Do you have a passion for teamwork, event coordination, videography, problem-solving, or creative production skills? Interested in becoming a part of the integral team behind Survivor @ FIU? Fill out an application to become a crew member by clicking this link here.

    Season 1

    Alejandro Garcia

    Andres Contreras

    Danessa Acosta

    Daniel Oliva

    Maddy Strunck

    Samuel Espina

    Yorrick De Souza

    Cooper Diamond

    Danielle Santiago

    Dennis Molina

    Khamal Jihad

    Myles Simyon

    Serena Turner

    Victor Ribeiro

    Cast

    FIU SURVIVOR CASTING

    FIU Survivor Casting

    Applications are currently closed. Please check back when casting season begins.

    In-Person Casting Calls

    Open Calls are held by the FIU Survivor Production Team. They will be putting you on tape so there is no need to bring anything but your FIU ID to the open call. You are not required to attend an open call to apply.


    Modesto Maidique Campus
    Wednesday, November 19 / 4:00PM - 7:00PM

    Graham Center Pit
    10955 SW 15th Terrace
    Miami, FL 33199

    Production Team Information
    Students who are interested have the ability to join the crew and production team. Crew members help set up the challenges, film the video footage that will be used when editing the YouTube series, and help with the running and functioning of the game.

    Frequently Asked Questions


    What are the minimum requirements to join?

    You must fill out a casting application as a current Florida International University student and be willing to fully commit to a semester-long competition.


    What level of availability do I need in order to participate?

    FIU Survivor seasons are filmed throughout the entirety of the FIU Spring cycles and require participants to be able to commit to at least 2 meetings a week. Filming times will be built around the schedules/availabilities of contestants prior to the season start.


    What is FIU Survivor about?

    Survivor FIU is one of the most intense extracurriculars at FIU. 12-16 students will be chosen to compete in a 60-70 day version of the award-winning CBS TV series “Survivor” where players compete against each other with the same ultimate goal: to outwit, outlast, and outplay each other. Players will participate in a variety of physical, mental, and strategic challenges for immunity. They’ll form alliances, friendships, and deals in an effort to vote each other out for the title of Sole Survivor and a cash prize.


    How can I be a part of the production team?

    Fill out the application to become a part of the production team. You will be reached out to schedule an interview upon submission of application.


    When do they film this upcoming season?

    Season 2 of FIU Survivor will be held throughout the FIU Spring 2025 semester.


    What do Crew Members do?

    Crew members help set up the challenges, film the video footage that will be used when editing the YouTube series, and help with the running and functioning of the game.


    Survivor @ FIU Production Privacy Policy

    Last modified: October 12, 2025


    Scope

    Survivor @ FIU is a student-run organization that produces campus reality-competition content based off of the award-winning CBS TV series “Survivor” and related events.This privacy policy explains our practices—and your choices—regarding how we collect, use, and share information (including personal information), both online and offline, in relation to our productions and production-adjacent activities, such as:

    • Casting and recruitment (applications, auditions, crew sign-ups)

    • Identifying and developing material

    • Capturing footage and producing content

    • Broadcasting, distribution, and promotional activities (including advertising/marketing)

    • Live or digital events connected to our productions

    This policy applies to individuals participating before, during, or after a production, including:

    • Applicants/auditionees

    • Guests or audience members

    • Cast members, featured performers, extras, presenters, and other talent

    • Support team or crew (e.g., producers, writers, camera, art, game ops)

    • Any other individuals who provide Personal Information or whose Personal Information we collect in relation to our productions

    We refer to this broader group of individuals as “production participants”.This Policy does not create any contract with you or an employment relationship.

    How this policy interacts with other policies

    This policy governs how your personal information is used in the context of Survivor @ FIU productions and supplements any other applicable policies that may apply to your relationship with us (for example, Florida International University or platform policies where our content is hosted). If there is any inconsistency between this policy and other applicable policies, this policy takes precedence only for the use of your information in the context of productions.

    • Student conduct & safety. All participants are expected to uphold FIU’s Student Conduct and Honor Code (FIU-2501).

    • Student-organization operations. As a Registered Student Organization, we follow Campus Life/RSOC requirements (recognition, events, marketing, travel, use of Panther Connect, etc.). Key principles and operational expectations for RSOs are in the RSOC Handbook.

    Information we collect about you

    We collect information about you related to your role in a production, including in the context of application, invitation or participation to a production. We also collect information from other sources (including where production participants provide us with the personal information of other individuals). Please note that the personal information we collect about you may be combined with personal information we collect from third parties.

    Information you provide

    • Casting/application details (e.g., name, contact information, age/date of birth, demographic details you choose to provide, education and experience, role preferences)

    • Physical appearance details relevant to hair, makeup, wardrobe, or safety requirements

    • Production administration data (e.g., performance/continuity notes, schedules, call sheets)

    • Health information where relevant to your role or safety (e.g., allergies, accessibility needs, fitness requirements)

    • Your opinions where relevant to casting, storytelling, or game structure

    • Other sensitive information you voluntarily provide if relevant to casting or participation (e.g., race/ethnicity, religious or philosophical beliefs, sexual orientation, alleged offenses, union/guild memberships), subject to applicable law

    • Travel information where we assist with arrangements for production activities

    • Photos, video, and audio recordings you submit or we capture in casting, rehearsals, events, or production

    • Correspondence you send us in any medium

    • Offline information gathered during in-person activities (auditions, events, filming)

    Please refrain from providing information if we did do not ask you to provide it.

    Information we collect from third parties

    • Publicly available information, including social media profile information, information posted online or on other platforms;

    • Opinions about you including the opinions of friends and family and those of medical providers and other registered health professionals to the extent that these are relevant to your role in the production.

    Information About Others

    We may collect and use information about other individuals when you provide information about them. If you share information about other people (including minors), you must have the necessary authorization/consent to do so (e.g., you are the parent/guardian for a minor).

    How We Collect Your Information - Sources

    Where permitted by FIU Policy, we may collect information:

    • Directly from you (applications, interviews, forms, messages)

    • From co-production partners or service providers supporting production/casting

    • From individuals you list as references or emergency contacts

    • From publicly available sources, including social media platforms

    How We Use Your Information & Why

    We use information as needed to comply with FIU student and RSO requirements (e.g., safety, event protocols, space reservations, travel forms, RSOC approvals, Panther Connect event listings).

    Our contractual relationship with you

    If you sign an appearance release or other participation paperwork (e.g., stipend/prize, travel), we use your information to administer those terms (scheduling, safety, reimbursements, eligibility) or to enforce program rules. If required information isn’t provided, we may be unable to proceed with participation.

    Legitimate organizational purposes

    We may use information to:

    • Produce, promote, and distribute production content

    • Manage productions (project management, budgeting, casting, crew recruitment, scheduling, logistics, safety)

    • Communicate with you and respond to inquiries

    • Run contests, giveaways, or promotions (eligibility, winner selection)

    • Conduct research, surveys, product/format testing, and audience engagement

    • Manage social media, user-generated content, and marketing campaigns

    • Exercise or defend legal claims; prevent fraud or misuse

    • Maintain continuity of operations and safety of participants, volunteers, facilities, and platforms

    • Comply with and enforce applicable terms, policies, codes of conduct, and university guidelines

    Consent

    In certain cases (especially for sensitive information or where law requires), we will ask for your explicit consent and explain the purpose. If consent is required and you do not provide it, we may be unable to process your application or participation.

    Vital interests

    We may process your personal information when necessary to protect your vital interests and the vital interests of others. For example, to protect your health and safety and the health and safety of other participants and other third parties in connection with emergencies.

    Who We Share Your Information With & Why

    • Authorized service providers and partners supporting production activities (e.g., casting tools, background checks where lawful, insurance, scheduling/ticketing, credentialing, transportation, catering, medical/safety services, payment processors)

    • Co-producers/collaborators involved in the production lifecycle (their privacy policies also apply)

    • Security and safety recipients where necessary to protect rights, property, and safety of participants, the public, or the organization

    • Viewers and the public: Any personal information included in content may be seen worldwide wherever the content is shown (e.g., social platforms, campus channels, screenings)

    • Distribution/hosting platforms (e.g., social media, campus media, streaming or file-sharing services) to the extent needed to publish or promote content

    Your Choices, Rights and Controls

    Depending on FIU processes/policies, you may request access/correction/deletion or limits on use. These rights can be limited—for example, where requests would affect others’ rights or conflict with FIU record-keeping, safety, or conduct obligations. FIU’s Code defines key terms and jurisdiction for student and student-organization conduct.

    Retention

    We retain information as long as reasonably necessary for the purposes in this policy and consistent with FIU requirements (e.g., conduct/records considerations). Content used for artistic/journalistic purposes (e.g., show episodes, clips, publicity assets) may be retained as permitted by FIU policies for archival and educational use.

    Changes to This Privacy Policy

    We may update this policy to reflect new practices or FIU guidance. If changes are material, we’ll provide appropriate notice consistent with FIU’s student-organization environment.

    Contact us

    Survivor @ FIU
    Attn: Catalina Rodriguez Kretz
    Email: [email protected]
    Florida International University
    11200 SW 8th Street, GC 219
    FL, 33199
    USA

    FIU Survivor

    Contact Us

    If you have any comments, questions, concerns, or suggestions feel free to contact us via the form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.


    Our Socials
    Feel free to contact us via our Social Media pages as well, and we will respond to you as soon as possible.
    Our Instagram →

    0Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Alejandro Garcia

    Biography

    Age: 20
    Hometown: Miami
    Year: Sophomore
    Major: Environmental Engineering
    Hobbies: Music, exploring nature, and astronomy.Pet peeves: People with no awareness.Three words to describe you: Creative, funny, and unhinged.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    I've always wanted to be part of a game show or competition show! I've even played the knock-off version of survivor on Roblox. I have also have the chance to see the set of Survivor: Dominican Republic, when i took a trip to the area. I cant imagine anyone watching Big Brother or Survivor and NOT thinking to themselves "There's no way it's that hard, I would do a way better job." And i really want to see if that's true.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I think I could make it fairly far, a lot of challenges require quick thinking or using your body in creative ways, both of which I'm honestly pretty confident in. I've done both sports and music, and really pushed my ability to think quickly and approach difficult problems. I have also had the chance to try a lot of different kinds of sports, which if i can pull skills from, would give me a good leg up against other people.

    .

    0Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Andres Contreras

    Biography

    Age: 20
    Hometown: Miami
    Year: Junior
    Major: Public Relations
    Hobbies: Video games, listening to philosophical podcasts, and graphic designing.Pet peeves: People who have zero emotion; people who bore me; people who don't know how to communicate properly.Three words to describe you: Impulsive, perceptive, and zealous.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    I want to play because Survivor and other reality competitions have always been things that have interested me and I wanted to see how I would perform in these types of situations and what I would do in these situations. To get the opportunity to be able to play is something that I would really enjoy. I believe that I personally have the capacity to be a great communicator and I think that'll help me in the long run and I wanna put that to the test to see how really great of a communicator and a strategist I am.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I think I can win because I have the dedication and drive to play a more strategic game and do things that align best with what is best for me in terms of gameplay. I know how to express my thoughts and communicate those with others, and I think in terms of convincing people, I can be very honest and blunt, and that will give me an edge over the others because I think in general, people prefer a more honest and straightforward person rather than someone who lies. Even if I do lie I do think I will be able to come off as someone who is being honest when it does come to that point. I think I can position myself very well within the teams in order to get out good understanding of where I stand at all times in the game that'll help me survive.

    .

    1Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Cooper Diamond

    Biography

    Age: 20
    Hometown: Bennington, NE
    Year: Junior
    Major: Marine Biology
    Hobbies: I like to read, write music, and sketch.Pet peeves: Close-mindedness.Three words to describe you: Ambitious, wild, and fun.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    I love trying new things and I love survivor. I think I can compete at the highest level.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I think I can go all the way because I have the athleticism, charisma, and strategic mind that is necessary within the game of survivor. Not often do we get to see a jack of all trades that can do it all well.

    .

    1Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Danielle Santiago

    Biography

    Age: 19
    Hometown: Pembroke Pines, FL
    Year: Freshman
    Major: Music Education
    Hobbies: Playing instruments, singing, sewing, crocheting, and knitting.Pet peeves: People with no dental hygiene.Three words to describe you: Kind, artistic, and funny.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    This just sounds so interesting and I would absolutely love to participate.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I think I would be able to make it all the way to the end. I am pretty competitive and I think that this would be a fun challenge.

    .

    0Team/Individual Immunities won
    3Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Danessa Acosta

    Biography

    Age: 18
    Hometown: Miami, FL
    Year: Freshman
    Major: Biology
    Hobbies: Playing Roblox.Pet peeves: People who mispronounce my name; people who chew loudly; people who drive slow in fast lanes.Three words to describe you: Funny, reliable, and compassionate.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    I think it will be really fun and I want to make some friends.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I think I can make it until the tribe stage is over because I believe I can be a good asset in a team. However, I do not think it is impossible for me to win in the individual games.

    .

    1Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Dennis Molina

    Biography

    Age: 20
    Hometown: Miami, FL
    Year: Junior
    Major: Digital Arts
    Hobbies: Skating, drawing, and painting.Pet peeves: People who don't challenge me.Three words to describe you: Confident, open, and smart.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    To meet new people.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    At least halfway into the competition since I’m athletic.

    .

    0Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Daniel Oliva

    Biography

    Age: 21
    Hometown: Coral Gables, FL
    Year: Senior
    Major: Math Education
    Hobbies: Cooking, DJ'ing, video games.Pet peeves: Pen clicking.Three words to describe you: Easygoing, smart, and courageous.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    I would love to play given I would fit right in. I love survivor as a show and I even had the opportunity to host a survivor game with my friends for the last two years.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I think I could go all the way and win it all given my extensive background and knowledge of the game and my interpersonal skills. I am also decently athletic so that helps!

    .

    1Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Khamal Jihad

    Biography

    Age: 20
    Hometown: Tallahassee, FL
    Year: Junior
    Major: Sports Management
    Hobbies: Playing video games, sports, and hanging out with friends.Pet peeves: Losers.Three words to describe you: Energetic, funny, and himothy.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    I feel like I am a good competitor and will dominate the game, and, why not?
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I have drive and that dog in me.

    .

    0Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Maddy Strunck

    Biography

    Age: 18
    Hometown: Columbus, OH
    Year: Freshman
    Major: Marine Biology
    Hobbies: Listening to music, going to the gym, hanging out with friends, watching movies, going to the beach.Pet peeves: People who are slow walkers.Three words to describe you: Thoughtful, passionate, and loyal.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    It's an interesting opportunity and I love the show, I've grown up watching survivor with my family and now mostly my dad. We’re watching the new season together too.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I think I’m fit, super friendly and out going and can make friends with anyone so hopefully that’ll help me make friends out playing.

    .

    1Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Myles Simyon

    Biography

    Age: 20
    Hometown: New York, NY
    Year: Junior
    Major: Finance
    Hobbies: Working out and playing video games.Pet peeves: People with no manners; people who are slow walkers.Three words to describe you: Funny, sassy, and open-minded.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    It looks really interesting and fun.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I think I will be able to win because this game looks fun and does not look hard at all.

    .

    0Team/Individual Immunities won
    4Votes cast against
    14thFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Samuel Espina

    Biography

    Age: 19
    Hometown: Caracas, VE
    Year: Freshman
    Major: Architecture
    Hobbies: Going outdoors, camping, and challenging myself.Pet peeves: People with no awareness.Three words to describe you: Adventurous, experienced, and resourceful.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    I have always wanted to participate in Survivor, since I was little I liked surviving programs and went camping every time I could.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I believe I can make it till the end and win the competition, I have a lot of experience surviving in the wild, already did a mini version of the show with my friends and finished it easily, experience making shelters and getting food in the wild.

    .

    1Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Serena Turner

    Biography

    Age: 20
    Hometown: Sarasota, FL
    Year: Sophomore
    Major: Business Analytics
    Hobbies: Going to the beach, watching reality TV, shopping, and hanging out with friends.Pet peeves: People who are slow walkers; people who are bad drivers.Three words to describe you: Spontaneous, energetic, and friendly.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    -
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    -

    .

    0Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Yorrick de Souza

    Biography

    Age: 18
    Hometown: San Juan, PR
    Year: Freshman
    Major: Jazz Performance
    Hobbies: Playing bass and fence.Pet peeves: People who don't use their turn signals.Three words to describe you: Kind, creative, and driven.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    To have a fun new extracurricular experience and meet new people.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I hope to make it to the very end by creating alliances and succeeding in challenges.

    .

    1Team/Individual Immunities won
    0Votes cast against
    TBAFinal Placement
    3Days lasted in the game

    Victor Ribeiro

    Biography

    Age: 19
    Hometown: Mountain House, CA
    Year: Freshman
    Major: Architecture
    Hobbies: Volleyball and swimming.Pet peeves: People who chew with their mouth open; people who don't say thank you.Three words to describe you: Brazilian, ego, and funny.What's your reason for being on Survivor?
    My friend invited me to play and this sounded fun and gives me something to do.
    Why do you think you'll "survive" Survivor?
    I think I'll go averagely far, I'm athletic, decently smart, and have a bit of an ego.

    .

    Catalina Rodriguez Kretz

    President

    Year: Junior
    Major: Business Analytics
    What do you like the most about your position?
    I like feeling the responsibility to take care of Survivor FIU and guide it to become a fun, exciting experience for everyone. I love leading our wonderful team and working together to create this project. I also like getting to know the players!
    What is it about survivor that you find fascinating?
    It is fascinating how no matter how many seasons there are, you can’t ever tell who will win.

    Jessie Honeycutt

    Vice-President

    Year: Junior
    Major: Elementary Education
    What do you like the most about your position?
    I love being the co-founder and vice president because I enjoy working with our team to create a fun experience for all involved.
    What is it about survivor that you find fascinating?
    The game of Survivor is a perfect mix of social, physical and mental challenges. It forces people to think on their feet and work with people they will later have to vote out.

    Dylan Teboe

    Producer/Director

    Year: Junior
    Major: Digital Media
    What do you like the most about your position?
    I like that my position as Producer and Lead Editor allows me to bring my creative vision to life, while working with so many passionate and dedicated people to create something none of us could have accomplished alone.
    What is it about survivor that you find fascinating?
    The thing about Survivor I find most fascinating is that out of so many players, only one can make it to the end, forcing people to strategize against each other, break alliances, and do whatever it takes to win. Through the season, we’re able to tell so many people’s personal stories, and give viewers the chance to empathize with and root for their favorite players.

    Alain Sanchez

    Game Development/Crew

    Year: Junior
    Major: Communications
    What do you like the most about your position?
    I like having a front row seat to the game and getting to see it play out up close.
    What is it about survivor that you find fascinating?
    I like that Survivor emphasizes drama and relationships just as much as it does the games themselves, that makes it pretty unique.

    Catalina Rodriguez Kretz
    President
    305-348-0000
    [email protected]

    Jessie Honeycutt
    Vice President
    305-348-0000
    [email protected]

    Dylan Teboe
    Producer & Director
    305-348-0000
    [email protected]

    Andres Contreras
    Marketing Director/Crew
    305-348-0000
    [email protected]