Have you ever watched “Survivor” and thought, “I could totally do that”? You’re in luck, because Penn State has its very own Survivor club.

Founded by junior graphic design major Charlie Papiernik, Survivor at Penn State is a student-run organization that recreates the reality TV show right here on campus. What began as an idea in his dorm room quickly became a full production with tribal councils and all-day competitions.

Papiernik attempted to start the club his freshman year of college, but realized that the realities of starting a new club were more difficult than he thought.

“I tried starting the club my freshman year, but it wasn’t very successful because there was a lot more paperwork than I expected,” he said. “Toward the end of my sophomore year, I thought I would give it another try, got a spot at the club fair, and we just took off.”

Now, Survivor is led by a four-person executive board, including Papiernik as president, alongside his vice president, treasurer, and public relations officer. The club usually sees about 12-15 members per meeting, and has had over 70 students participate overall this past semester and a half.

Each “season” begins with roughly 18 players, who are then divided into teams and compete in challenges before heading to Tribal Council and voting out one player. “Our shortest game was from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and our longest went until 9 p.m.,” Papiernik said. He says the days are long, but always fun.

Behind the scenes, a large production team helps keep the club running smoothly. It helps manage the social media, film challenges, set up and take down equipment, and serves as “tribe handlers” to assist the players.

Beyond the club, Survivor at Penn State has helped students form strong friendships, and for some, even relationships. “We hang outside of club hours now,” Papiernik says. “We’ve even had full-fledged relationships come from it.”

Looking ahead, the club hopes to be more financially sustainable and expand its impact on the community. Survivor at Penn State currently relies on limited funding and personal contributions, and Papiernik hopes to eventually hold charity-focused games and fundraisers.

They are also branching out into other reality TV shows, so if you are also a fan of “The Traitors” or “The Amazing Race,” this club is for you. Students interested in joining can apply through the club’s Instagram here.

Upcoming events include Season 7 on March 28 and “The Amazing Race” at Penn State on April 11. Players who perform well have the chance to be invited back to their very own “All-Stars” season later in the semester.

“I’ve put my blood, sweat, and tears into this club,” Papiernik exclaims. “I’m nervous about leaving it when I graduate, but I’m confident the next generation will keep it going.”

Want to support the club? Consider donating to Survivor at Penn State’s GoFundMe.