When American Idol auditions came to Orlando on August 17, two juniors from Lake Brantley, Fernando Garcia and Takiya Williams went through the rigorous registration process and experienced the reality TV spectacle first hand.

Garcia and Williams waited in line for over seven hours, and were able to get uncommon information about how American Idol producers choose contestants and run the show.

“We got there around 2:30 in the morning and then had to wait until 3:00 AM to start the registration line which started at 6:00 AM,” Garcia said. “Luckily for me I was in the front of the line because I got there so early. From there we had to wait to see the judges.”

Waiting in line for many hours may seem tedious to some, but with such a large group of lively singers who share a common dream, it is far from boring. Bonding over their love of music, many auditionees came together to make the experience one for the books. “When we were all really close to each other in line, everyone just broke  out in song,” Williams said. “It was really fun to sing along.” Although both received compliments from producers for being very talented, neither made it past the first round. To the surprise of many, American Idol producers already have the type of winner in mind before auditions even begin.

“They told me I was really good, but I just wasn’t who they had in mind,” Garcia said. “I  thought to myself,‘You had me wait this whole time in a line just to tell me you were looking for something else?’ It was sad at first, but I was also content. They said they were looking for a girl, who sounds like Carrie Underwood and, well I’m definitely not that.”

Even though some would view them not moving on to the next round as a setback, it is certainly not the end of their dreams. Both have varying opinions on whether or not they would audition next season, but they both say it is an opportunity that people should not miss out on.

“I would describe it as tiring, hot, and life changing,” Williams said. “It boosted my confidence when other really talented singers complimented me and it built me up, even though I didn’t make it, I am ready for new auditions.”