By Cody Porter

The search for the next big stars of MTV’s “The Real World” has begun, and UK students could have the chance to audition.

Casting directors from Bunim/Murray Productions, the creators of “The Real World,” will hold open casting calls at various locations across the country in the coming weeks in hopes of finding a diverse cast for the 26th season of the reality show. People between the ages of 18 and 24 are asked to audition.

MTV is looking for people who have strong personalties and are not afraid to speak their minds, Jonathan Murray, executive producer of “The Real World,” said in a press release.

Casting director Damon Furberg said casting directors meet with the applicants in small groups.

“Each casting director has their own style of conducting the interviews,” Furberg said. “Some play party games, others ask questions or set up topics for debate. The applicants we like the most are called back for a taped one-on-one interview the following day.”

Integrated strategic communication sophomore Whittney Dawn Allen sent in an audition tape and was asked to attend the Nashville, Tenn., open casting call.

“Most people call it a ‘cattle call’ round because so many people do it,” Allen said.

She said she does not want to get her hopes up just yet.

“I was excited of course, but there’s still no guarantee I’ll make it through the first round in Nashville,” Allen said. “So I’m keeping my fingers crossed and hoping the Big Blue Nation will do the same.”

Allen, who grew up watching the show, said she thinks she stood out because she was homeschooled, has traveled the country and is in Delta Zeta sorority. She said those factors were mentioned in the response from Bunim/Murray Productions.

Fame and limitless opportunities can come from the experience, but Furberg said many former applicants cite friendships as the number one benefit for cast members.

“‘The Real World’ experience forges strong bonds between the roommates,” Furberg said.

Season 25, located in a Las Vegas suite in the Casino Tower of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino of “The Real World” premiered Wednesday. Furberg said the location of season 26 has yet to be determined.

Additional information on locations, times, application forms and audition tapes can be found at http://www.bunim-murray.com/casting/realworld.

The closest open casting call is 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 30 in Nashville at Buffalo’s Billiards.