Participate in a tv show

Okay, so technically this one wasn’t a real TV show—as in, it didn’t air on national television or anything. But it was filmed, was a show, and was a super random, unexpected experience that deserves a spot on the blog.

So here’s what happened…

I had once shared a cosplay photo in a Facebook group—nothing too wild, just me doing my nerdy thing. Fast-forward a bit, and I get this very long comment on it. Like, suspiciously long. But instead of being spam or a weird flex, it was actually a message from a student at RITCS School of Arts in Brussels.

They were working on their final school project: a dating show about people with unique hobbies. They'd match two people up and film them going on dates, learning about each other’s worlds. Honestly? Kind of genius.

And since I’ve been trying to say yes to things that scare me (hello, growth mindset ✨), I took a deep breath and replied:"Sure, why not?"

A student reached out, and we had a lovely phone call. She explained the whole concept and tried to get to know me—to see if there was anyone who could be a potential match. I was excited, nervous, and very much questioning my life choices. But hey, I said yes, so… no turning back now.

A few days later, I got an update:There wasn’t a match for me in the final pairings. Womp womp.

BUT—they still wanted to include me in the project! I’d be featured in the intro segment of episode two, which would highlight other hobbyists who could be part of future episodes (if this were a real series). So even though I wouldn’t go on a filmed date, I still had to record some content to introduce myself.

Half disappointment, half huge sigh of relief—because honestly, being filmed while awkwardly trying to flirt on camera? Stress.

My task: record some intro clips about myself. I talked about my hobbies (cosplay and gaming), shared what I was looking for in a guy (still figuring that one out, thanks), and answered the dreaded “Why are you single?” question. 😬

Now, I stream sometimes, so I’m kind of used to being on camera. But this felt… weird. Like I was selling myself as a product. “Hi, I’m Karen, I come with gaming skills, a cat named Luna, and a side of social awkwardness.”

After some trial and error (and maybe a few takes where I accidentally rambled like a gremlin), I finally sent the videos off.

And then… silence.

Weeks Later: Surprise! You’re In!

Honestly, I forgot about it. Thought maybe they scrapped the whole thing. And then BAM—I got a message.The episode was done. And I was in it.

I watched the preview and was genuinely impressed. It was fun, fresh, and really creative. And then... my part came on.

Cue: INTENSE SELF-CRINGE.Why is it so hard to see and hear yourself on video?! I wanted to hide under my desk. Not because it was bad (it wasn’t—it was actually really well done), but because I just can't watch myself without secondhand embarrassment. 🙃

That said… I LOVED my intro banner. 10/10 graphic design moment.

Surprise number two: I actually did get a match after all.He’s a little younger, lives in Antwerp, and draws cartoons. His intro video was also featured in the episode... and I got his number. 👀

So now the question is:Should I go on the date?(Feel free to vote with your chaotic energy in the comments.)

Update… after chatting for a while, it became clear that we were just way too different. Our lifestyles, interests, and general vibes were kinda like trying to pair a cat with a goldfish—both cute, just not meant to hang out in the same bowl.

So no, we didn’t go on a date. And honestly? That’s okay.Sometimes a match on paper just doesn’t translate into real connection—and that’s part of the journey too.

Still, I said yes to something that scared me. I got to be part of a fun, creative project. I stretched my comfort zone.And that? Totally worth it. 💫