The HHS Clarion had the opportunity to sit down with this year’s Mr. Congeniality, senior Gio Occhipinti. Those who attended the student council fundraiser on Saturday, March 4 2017, got to see all of the contestants compete through a dance routine, talent portion, and fashion round. Gio impressed the judges with his new-school take on an old-school act, dance moves, and cowboy costume. The Clarion got a chance to ask him some questions about what it took for him to become Mr. Congeniality.

Interviewer: “What was your favorite part of the whole Mr. Hawthorne process?”

Gio: “The week of the show was my favorite part, because that was when everything started to come together and practice became much more enjoyable than stressful.”

Interviewer: “How did you come up with your talent portion?”

Gio: “It came to me in a dream.”

Interviewer: “What inspired your fashion choice?”

Gio: “I wanted a costume that would be easy to find and still let my personality show, so I figured the classic cowboy was the way to go.”

Interviewer: “Was it difficult to come up with the on the spot answers for the question portion?”

Gio: “Kind of. The key is to just be yourself and come up with a simple, funny answer, without thinking too much.”

Interviewer: “Did you have any inspiration or advice from past Mr. Hawthorne winners?”

Gio: “Not really, I wanted to do something that no one had done before.”

Interviewer: “If not yourself, who do you think should’ve won?”

Gio: “Alex Ferriola was one of the hardest workers in the competition, so I think he deserves some recognition, but George also put on a great performance so I’m happy that he won.”

Interviewer: “What made you decide you wanted to participate in Mr. Hawthorne?”

Gio: “I’ve always enjoyed watching Mr. Hawthorne and I felt my personality made me a good fit for it.”

Interviewer: “How does it feel to be Mr Congeniality? What’s the best part?”

Gio: “I’m very honored and very proud of myself for the way I performed. The best part is the opportunity to be a part of the show. Win or lose, it’s an experience none of us will forget.”

Interviewer: “Any advice for future Mr. Hawthorne contestants?”

Gio: “Don’t be nervous. Be confident and let your personality show, and you’ll have the time of your life…but don’t bother trying to top this year’s show.”

Interviewer: “Why did you go with a full band to help you out, and Andre Cosini to dance with?”

Gio: “I wanted something to set me apart from all the other acts. Having my band there made it feel authentic, and I don’t know anybody else who can dance like Andre. I definitely couldn’t have won Mr. Congeniality without the help of Bobby, Konner, Miguel, Tom, Noah, and Andre.”