Nine Quick Questions With River Forest's Jeopardy! Contestant

We caught up with River Forest's Marion Baumgarten, 51, for a few quick questions about her appearance on Jeopardy! The episode is scheduled to air 3:30 p.m. Friday on Ch. 7 WLS-TV.

How long have you lived in River Forest?

About 22 years.

What line of work are you in?

I'm an HR evaluator, and work in the city.

I'm sure you're limited in what you can tell me, but how did you fare on the show?

Sorry, I promised I wouldn't say anything in advance, you'll have to watch.

How were your nerves?

I was less nervous than I expected. The whole taping goes by very quickly...

Have you always been a fan of Jeopardy, or was becoming a contestant a whim?

I've been a fan for a long time — since Alex Trebek took over as host.

When did you first apply to become a contestant?

About 10 years ago. I was called for auditions 4 times. The last one was the charm.

How did you practice and study?

Watched the show mainly.

How finnicky are those buzzers? I've always wondered if a contestant could press the buzzer halfway before it triggers, giving them an unfair advantage...

The buzzers are very reliable. They are tested several times during the show. If you buzz into soon, you are locked out for a fraction of a second.

Finally, let's talk your Alex Trebek preference — younger, mustachioed Trebek? Or modern, clean-shaven Trebek?

I go with age and experience over youth every time!