Topic: S50: Genevieve Mushaluk (Vatu)

[RealityFreakWill]

Genevieve Mushaluk

Season: Survivor 47
Age: 34
Hometown: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Current Residence: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Current Occupation: Lawyer

Why do you want to come back for Survivor 50 and how does it feel to be chosen for this milestone season?

My “why” is the same as it's been for the past many years as I applied and dreamed of getting the opportunity to play - I love the game of Survivor. I feel extremely honored to have been chosen for season 50, and a bit in shock. (Imposter syndrome at an all time high right now!)

What one life experience since the last time you played do you feel has prepared you for 50?

Getting to hear the perspectives of the players from my season (season 47 – woo!) gave me firsthand experience and a deeper understanding of the fact that there are so many individual stories and motivations at play within one shared game of Survivor. Keeping that in mind and never becoming blind to it or too self-centered in the game will make me better prepared for success this time.

Coming into this season, what is the Survivor accomplishment you are most proud of? And what are you eager to have another shot at?

Again about season 47 (I know, I’m obsessed), but the accomplishment I’m most proud of from my Survivor experience is something you all didn't get to see when I played – I made friends! When the game was over, I got to know the incredible people I had played with. My hope for myself this time around is that I can let my guard down (difficult to do for me in a game of deception), and get to know and appreciate the people here, before it’s over.

What would you say is your Survivor reputation and how will you manage that perception in the game?

“Genevieve the person” vs “Genevieve the player”. Two distinct versions of me, one infinitely colder than the other. I think people expect me to be standoffish and calculated. I hope to manage this by forcing myself out of my shell a bit to show people more of my goofy or vulnerable sides to connect with them so they don’t feel like they are just getting Genevieve the player (until I vote them out).

What is your strategy going into 50? And how will it differ from previous time(s) you’ve played?

In addition to trying to open up more, I also need to market myself as useful. I am the only one out here from my season. Many people have former castmates and or friends out here. I don’t. That‘s something I didn't have to mitigate last time and will certainly impact my game. I also intend to be more discerning when it comes to trust vs target. I.e., just because I don't trust you, that doesn’t mean I need you gone.

Survivor fans have had the opportunity to help shape the game this season by voting on various elements – what are you hoping makes the cut and why?

1.   If there isn’t a live reunion after the airing, I will riot.
2.   Please tell me you all voted to scrap fire making (because I’m still bad at it).

At this point in your life who is your biggest inspiration and why?

Last season 47 mention, I promise. Going into season 50, it is so important to me that I represent my crew well. Of course I’m biased, but it’s a fact that my season was filled with the best Survivor players. The puzzle queens will inspire me to calm down and focus. The idol finders inspire me to take risks. The social stars inspire me to be more empathetic. And the amazing people I clashed with in the game who I now trust and admire inspire me to pause and go beyond my frame of mind.

Why will you be the Sole Survivor?

Oh gosh. Okay last time I played I embodied the hope for the best, plan for the worst mindset. It’s a coping strategy that I use a lot in everyday life. Coming out here, a dear friend of mine (who knows me well and my tendencies) said, “Genevieve, that's a great mindset to help you manage and brace for if you're voted out, but it won't help you win.” And they are right. So this time, I’m all in. I’m going to be bold enough to want it with my whole heart! It may leave me extra heartbroken, but if I give it my all and stay true to myself and all that I’ve learned, I really think I can win!