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Few people have an experience so surreal it feels like a dream, let alone one that’s watched by millions. For Ohio Northern University pharmacy alumnus John Mostowy, PharmD ’18, that dream is a high-stakes reality.

John is contestant #11 on the second season of Prime Video’s Beast Games, Strong vs. Smart. Created by world-famous YouTuber MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson), the competition is a global phenomenon known for extravagant stunts and elaborate challenges. Out of more than 400,000 applicants, John was one of only 200 elite competitors selected to battle for the $5 million grand prize.

The first three episodes debuted on Prime Video on January 7, with new episodes dropping every Wednesday through February.

A pharmacist in Scottsdale, Arizona, John has never been content with an ordinary path, a sentiment he once shared with the Dean of �������Ƶ’s Raabe College of Pharmacy.

“I distinctly remember telling Dean Steven Martin that I didn’t want a cookie-cutter life,” he said. “I wanted to do something really epic, really cool—something the average person wouldn’t even consider.”

Beast Games certainly fits the bill. The competition pits “smart” against “strong,” and John’s background made him a natural fit for the former. Possessing an adventurous and competitive spirit, he was a standout on �������Ƶ’s tennis team. He’s also a world-class Pokémon player who’s competed in two world championships.

Making the cut for the show “was one of the happiest moments of my life,” John recalled, and the actual competition was a true test of grit.

“You’re competing against Olympians, people who have Einstein-level IQs, and people with biceps the size of your thigh,” he said. “These are truly incredible, one-in-a-million individuals, and we became not just cast members and competitors, but friends. I walked away with friendships that are truly one-of-a-kind and you can’t put a price on that.”

John credits his �������Ƶ experience, especially the interpersonal skills he developed, for giving him an edge.

“Everything I learned, and the care which with I was treated at �������Ƶ, translated in some shape or form to give me an advantage in the games and in my profession.”

Describing Beast Games as a “top 5 life experience,” John says his thirst for competition has only deepened. He’s applying for Season 3 and for other reality TV opportunities.

“I want to continue to push myself to the highest level,” he said, “and to become the best version of myself.”