Senior Andy Beckman sat in a New York hotel Thursday night waiting for the morning that could possibly change his life.
Beckman is one of two finalists in the last round of a competition to find a guest host for ABC's morning talk show "Live with Regis and Kelly."
The contest is part of the show's American Co-Host Search. If chosen, Beckman will replace Kelly Ripa while she is on maternity leave. Beckman will also receive $10,000 to work with Buena Vista Television studios for six months to develop possible television projects. A one-year contract with NS Bienstock, a television agency, is also in the deal.
But until Friday's announcement of the winner on the talk show, Beckman is in the dark about the contest's outcome.
"All I know is I am going to be wearing a tux," Beckman, a telecommunications major, said.
Beckman said he does not feel very nervous about the search's outcome.
"I don't think it has sunk in yet," Beckman said. "It's a little nerve-racking, but there's only so much I can do."
Beckman said he has become more at ease as the contest has progressed.
"I'm not real nervous, because now the judging is over," Beckman said. "Now it's up to how everything plays out.
"It's almost a relief."
No matter what the outcome, Beckman said he is coming home to Muncie tomorrow after the show.
If the results are positive for him, Beckman will fly back to New York on April 16 to co-host the show and participate in his newfound career opportunities.
Being from the Midwest gives him a competitive edge, Beckman said.
"Other contestants are from Los Angeles or New York," Beckman said. "Coming from Indiana gives you a sense of community."
Beckman said he felt living in a smaller town enabled him to make more friendships and network with people.
Before leaving for New York, Beckman said, he e-mailed his professors to let them know of his situation. Beckman said he and his professors will decide how to deal with missed classwork after he returns.
Beckman's adventures at "Live with Regis and Kelly" began when he flew out to Los Angeles to visit friends during Spring Break.
They surprised Beckman by taking him to an audition for the co-host search. Beckman pleasantly surprised judges and became one of the 10 finalists chosen for an audition on the show.
Friday's broadcast is the second audition for the contestants.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
