Interview and Photo by Justin Hobby, Multimedia Editor

After graduating high school early, Inez Escamilla wasn’t sure what field to study in college. ACC gave her the options and skills to earn a spot on the Home and Garden television show “Brother Vs. Brother.” The show stars Drew and Jonathan Scott, who lead two teams of experts in a home renovation showdown. Escamilla discussed her experience with Accent.

ACCENT: What made you decide to try out for the show?

ESCAMILLA: I was surfing Craigslist and saw an ad for an audition. I drove down to Houston early the following morning. I think I was eighth in line, so being early is always good. I got a call back that afternoon for a second interview on camera, then I was flown to New York for the last round of interviews.

ACCENT: What was that process like?

ESCAMILLA: It was really nerve racking in front of the NBC and HGTV producers, but it turned out well because I got the job. Next thing I knew, I was flying to Los Angeles in January, and we shot from January to February.

ACCENT: What was it like being on the show?

ESCAMILLA: “Brother Vs. Brother” was a life-changing experience. It helped me realize my value by being considered one of the top ten in America and being around great landscape designers, architects and interior designers.

ACCENT: How did ACC prepare you for an opportunity like “Brother Vs. Brother?”

ESCAMILLA: I got my foundation from ACC. I took small business classes at ACC, and when I needed to learn a computer program I would register for that. I’ve taken everything from personal training and building construction to welding and art. It was really helpful when I got on HGTV because I was well rounded. I knew how to do tile, welding, lighting and wiring.

ACCENT: What was the best part of being on the show?

ESCAMILLA: When Jonathan Scott said I was the biggest team player.

ACCENT: What was the worst part of being on the show?

ESCAMILLA: Being rushed. I like to put a lot of quality into my work, and it takes time. Everyday we had strict deadlines to meet and not enough time to do them to realistically turn around someone’s remodel with quality.

ACCENT: What are you working on now?

ESCAMILLA: I shot a commercial for Stellar Energy Solutions, and we are working on the pilot for a travel show to pitch to the networks. I also work at a gym called Sharp End Athletics. We specialize in sports-specific training and family wellness. We also do rehabilitation work and are hoping to team up with the Wounded Warrior Project.

Editor’s note: This interview has been condensed and edited