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Glenbrook North Librarian to Appear on Jeopardy

Ana Peso's television appearance will air on ABC-7 on Monday, Dec. 31 at 2:30 p.m.

In many ways, Ana Peso’s job is the real world version of the popular afternoon game show “Jeopardy.” As one of Glenbrook North’s librarians, she is a constant source of information on a broad range of topics for both students and teachers.

So when an opportunity surfaced to appear on the actual show, Peso took some comfort in knowing that life at GBN had helped prepare her.

“I think being a librarian helped enormously,” she said. “This is what I do for a living – you ask me a question, and I answer it or help you find the answer. Plus, I read a lot.”

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Recently, Peso flew to California to put her trivia skills to the test for the chance at winning big bucks on “Jeopardy.” She was chosen to appear on the show almost a year after taking the online test and being asked to audition. Her episode will air on Monday, Dec. 31.

“It’s certainly exciting to know one of our librarians was selected to appear on the show," said GBN Principal Paul Pryma. "Ana is often someone who our teachers and students turn to for information on a multitude of topics, which makes her a great contestant for Jeopardy. We look forward to cheering her on when the show airs in December."

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Although not able to discuss the specifics of her game because of a confidentiality agreement with the show, Peso said she is trying not to think about any mistakes she may have made. Instead, she is focusing on the experience itself, which was both exciting and nerve-racking.

“It’s a high pressure situation. Your mind is just working so fast,” she said. “But eventually I did get used to the cameras, and it helped that I watched a few shows being taped before it was my turn.”

Having her hair and make-up done by a professional artist — who she was told worked on “Dancing with the Stars” — and getting used to working with the buzzer also added to the overall intensity of the situation.

Eventually, though, when she got into a groove, she was able to play the game the best she could. And the amount Peso ended up going home with will have to wait until December to be revealed. 

“Anyone could win. I really felt that when I was there,” she said. “The people you are with are really smart and from all different backgrounds.”

Peso’s episode will air at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 31 on ABC-7.

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