Since 1992
Print and digital marketing
AUBURN — Tanya Vanasse, who was a contestant for the TV reality show “Fear Factor,” told a group at the USM Lewiston-Auburn Senior College that it changed her life for the better.
Vanasse, an Auburn resident, was the March presenter at the college’s monthly Food for Thought program. She describes herself as a mother, daughter, sister and partner, has a bachelor of arts degree in social and behavioral sciences, and told the group of about 60 at the session that speaking in front of them was another “fear factor” for her, according to a news release from the senior college.
She spoke about her “Fear Factor” experiences, and said her decision while on vacation in Florida in 2013 to try out for it was “a life-changing, stepping-out-of-my-comfort-zone decision” that she is very glad she made. She said the experience continues to provide her with confidence when faced with difficult decisions or challenges. She was one of six who made it through the casting call phase and on into the “prep” phase of the competition. She was provided with a wet suit with disposable underwear to wear, and even though each challenge was described to contestants prior to it taking place, during the actual competition, there was always “one more thing” to add to the challenge — being rained on, cold wind blowing, or some other difficulty.
Just before the final competition, she and her opponent were asked why they thought they would win, and Vannasse’s opponent said he would crush her in the final. Her response? “Wrong, (I will win) because I am a mom!” she said her focus during the entire competition was to demonstrate to her son that a person can accomplish anything he or she sets their mind to and works hard to achieve.
April’s Food for Thought speaker will be Kevin Hancock, chief executive of Hancock Lumber, who will share his experience with spasmodic dysphonia, an incurable neurological condition that causes spasms in the vocal cords. The program is from noon–1 p.m., Friday, April 14, in Room 170 at USM LAC. Cost is $7 with a reservation, $8 at the door. Reservations must be made by April 12. For more information, call the Senior College information line at 753-6510. Go to USM.maine.edu/senior college for more information.
