Casting call goes out for "The Apprentice"

Casting directors from a TV show that’s made “you’re fired” a national catch-phrase will soon be in Iowa, looking for contestants. Donald Trump won’t make it, but talent scouts for “The Apprentice” will be at Merle Hay Mall in Des Moines on Saturday, July 16th for a general casting call. Earlier next week, on Thursday, July 14th at Iowa State University in Ames, the casting crew will meet anyone connected with I-S-U — alumni, students, even faculty or staff. Dan Ryan, a spokesman for I-S-U’s College of Business, says the key to success is to distinguish yourself from the other seekers of fame and fortune. “That holds true in a job interview and I think that holds true in a casting call for ‘The Apprentice,” Ryan says. “It’s your responsibility to show up and try and tell them why you would make a good candidate and, you know, hear the words ‘You’re hired’ from Donald Trump.” Ryan says if an Iowan gets picked for the next go-round of the show, they could try to erase the image competitor Tana Gertz may have left in the minds of many. “I think the consensus was she represented herself well up until maybe the very end and I think, truthfully, that’s part of the reason that they’re coming to Iowa both to Des Moines and to Iowa State University for a casting call,” Ryan says. The notoriety of being a contestant on the show may be good for a career, according to Ryan.”For your acting career, maybe,” Ryan says, laughing. “I think some notoriety may help you in your own business, but as far as the greater business community…the corporate world…I’m not sure how much (being a contestant on ‘The Apprentice’) helps.” Ryan doesn’t watch much TV, but has seen the show. “I’ve definitely seen quite a bit of it…my wife’s a very big fan,” he says. You have to be at least 21 years old and eligible to work in the U.S. to be on the show. For more information or to register, you can visit the show’s website, or check out www.bus.iastate.edu/apprentice for more details on the Ames casting call.