In the temporary study room of the apartment, preparing for the interview, he took a deep breath and tidied his simple white T-shirt to ensure he looked neat and clean.
On the laptop screen in front of him, the video conference software countdown was ticking down second by second.
There were only three minutes left until the online interview with the production team of "Alone in the Wilderness" Season 8.
As soon as the time arrived, the video call request popped up on time.
Lin Yu'an clicked to connect, and three faces of different ethnicities appeared on the screen, with a background that looked like a professional studio or a production office.
In the middle was a white male who seemed to be in his forties, exuding a meticulous producer's air. From previous research, he was Mark Johnson, the executive producer.
"Hello, Mr. Lin Yu'an, I'm Mark Johnson, the executive producer of 'Alone in the Wilderness.'"
Mark was the first to speak, his voice steady and strong.
"These two are Dave Canterbury, an experienced survival expert, and Michelle King, head of marketing and public relations."
"Thank you for taking the time to participate in this interview."
"Mr. Johnson, Mr. Canterbury, Ms. King, hello. I am very honored to have this opportunity," Lin Yu'an responded in fluent English, neither arrogant nor humble.
The opening of the interview was quite conventional, with Mark first introducing the nature of the show and the basic requirements for contestants, then went straight to the topic.
Mark Johnson's gaze fell on Lin Yu'an with a hint of inquiry, "Mr. Lin, in your application, we see that you are currently a student at Texas Tech University, coming from China?"
"Honestly, participants from China have been very rare in the past, with contestants mostly being professionals with rich outdoor experience. As an engineering student, what advantages do you think you have to meet such a harsh challenge?"
Lin Yu'an was well-prepared and calmly answered.
"Mr. Johnson, first of all, my learning and adaptability are very strong. Engineering has trained me in rigorous logical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which I believe are equally important in survival situations."
"Secondly, I am not completely without outdoor experience. Growing up, I lived in wilderness environments in China, granting me insights into survival knowledge."
"Oh? Could you elaborate?"
From the side, survival expert Dave Canterbury suddenly interjected, his voice slightly hoarse with a ruggedness honed by years outdoors.
Lin Yu'an nodded, starting to calmly describe the contents he demonstrated in his skills video, such as how to quickly set up shelters using limited tools, how to discern directions, and how to start a fire using the simplest method.
And identifying some common edible plants; his descriptions were clear and well-organized, occasionally interspersed with explanations of small techniques, demonstrating that he was knowledgeable beyond theoretical knowledge.
Dave Canterbury listened and nodded slightly, but the scrutiny in his eyes was undiminished.
Then, the marketing representative Michelle King, who had remained silent, suddenly asked. Her question was more direct and sharp.
"Mr. Lin, in your application, we also noticed a link to news about the recent Austin supermarket shooting."
"In the report, you were called the supermarket hero because you protected everyone in a critical moment. This is indeed a heroic deed, garnering significant public attention."
Following up, she gazed directly at Lin Yu'an, "I want to know, how do you think this experience helps you participate in 'Alone in the Wilderness'?"
"Or, do you wish through the show, to further… hmm, maintain or elevate your public image?"
This question has considerable traps; if answered carelessly, it could easily be perceived as wanting to exploit the program for self-promotion.
Lin Yu'an's expression did not change at all. He met Michelle King's gaze openly, speaking sincerely.
"Ms. King, that experience was a nightmare for me, and also a profound lesson! It made me understand more clearly the fragility of life and the importance of protecting family."
"Does it help me in participating in the show? It gives me a survival instinct and determination far beyond ordinary people to protect the ones I love!"
"As for public image?"
He shook his head slightly, "Frankly, I am not eager to become a public figure. I participate in 'Alone in the Wilderness' with only one most direct goal."
"That's for the million-dollar prize! For my wife!"
"As a man about to become a father, I hope through my efforts to create a more stable and carefree living environment for my family. This is my sole motivation for participating and the only reason I can persevere."
"Likewise, I also believe in my ability, under the premise of ensuring personal safety, to persist until the end! At home, there are loved ones waiting for me, and a future I must strive for!"
Mark and Dave exchanged a glance, seemingly moved by Lin Yu'an's answers.
His words were heartfelt and sincere, showcasing a man's responsibility and expressing a desire for success.
The previously silent executive producer Mark finally spoke again, his tone noticeably softened compared to before.
"Mr. Lin, your story is moving, and frankly, your identity as a Chinese international student, as well as your past 'supermarket hero' experience, indeed have high market potential and topicality for our show."
"Especially in the Chinese market, we hope to see more representative Chinese contestants, and your participation will undoubtedly greatly increase our program's attractiveness and copyright value on Chinese video platforms."
He paused, seemingly contemplating or making a final assessment.
Mark continued, "Of course, 'Alone in the Wilderness' ultimately chooses those who truly possess strong survival abilities and resilient will. We've seen your skills demonstration video, which indeed had some highlights but might require more proof compared to other experienced candidates."
"However, we're willing to give you a chance to prove everything you've claimed, Mr. Lin Yu'an, we formally invite you to participate in the final training camp for 'Alone in the Wilderness' Season 8."
"The training camp will take place in a week's time in Colorado's Rocky Mountains, lasting one week, where you'll face more rigorous tests and professional evaluations. Ultimately, only the ten contestants who pass the training camp assessments will qualify to truly embark on the wilderness journey of Season 8."
"Of course, the program will cover the training camp's costs. Do you accept this invitation?"
Lin Yu'an did not hesitate at all and immediately replied, "I accept! Thank you for giving me this opportunity! I will not disappoint you!"
"Great."
Mark Johnson nodded slightly, "The specific arrangements and precautions for the training camp will be sent to you by email later. We look forward to meeting you in Colorado, Mr. Lin, and please convey my regards to your wife. I hope she's doing well."
"I will, thank you Mr. Johnson," Lin Yu'an expressed heartfelt gratitude.