Shipwrecked

AFTER SHIPWRECKED: Ben returned to Scotland and is pursuing his career in creative advertising.

• Ben is a physical type; one of his favourite hobbies is snowboarding.
• He studied product design at University in Aberdeen.
• Ben is excited about all the challenges that being Shipwrecked will bring.

Before Shipwrecked

What attracted you to spend five months on a desert island?

It sounded like the kind of unique challenge I thrive on.  I see it as a test, an opportunity to see how I cope with the various aspects of living on a desert island with strangers and trying to build a community.  And of course, by competing against the other island, it will be a stern test of the team to which you belong.

What were you doing before you arrived on the Island?

Recently graduated in product design and was deliberating over what the next step should be in my career path.

What did your friends and family think of you doing it?

They thought I would be perfect for it and that I had found my calling!

What do you think you will achieve by doing it?

I would like to see how impressive a camp can be built in the time available.  It would be amazing to construct a full village!  By the end I aim to be proud of the camp we have built, be proud of the team, and have a better understanding of myself.

What's your longest period away from home prior to Shipwrecked?

I spent five months in Canada doing a snowboarding season just after school, following which I have been away for four years whilst at Uni.

What did you think about having to spend so long away from home with complete strangers?

I have been in such a position before, but not in the same claustrophobic environment and with a competition as everyone's main focus. It could get heated, and I'm sure I will have to bite my tongue, but I will get through it.

What's your worst habit?

Previous flatmates would say messiness!

What's your best feature?

I take genuine interest in people who show interest in me.