Alumni Profiles
Alum Lawyer Among Survivor: Gabon Contestants
When Survivor: Gabon premiered on Thursday, September 25, 2008, Dan Kay '99 (political science) was among the18 contestants vying for the $1 million prize that goes to the last survivor.
Kay has come a long way from his blue-collar roots in in Walpole, Massachusetts. Always involved in athletics, especially football, skiing and track, he played on a varsity football team in high school, which has a long tradition of winning and helped shape his strong work-ethic.
Charismatic, hard working and goal oriented, most of Kay's traits were formed from the influence provided by his parents and a select few coaches and teachers. As a young boy, his father became disabled, leaving his mother to care for his family and, eventually, his ill grandmother, all while working as a full-time nurse. In addition, Kay credits his mother's work ethic and unselfish attitude for his strong desire to overcome any obstacles in his career and personal life.
After graduating from UMass Amherst, Kay earned his law degree from Syracuse University College of Law where he was also a member of the Moot Court Honor Society. Kay has practiced law in Boston for five years, which helped him to purchase several investment properties. However, dedicating so much of his time to his practice left him depressed and feeling less than fulfilled with his life.
Prior to leaving for Survivor, he sold a number of investments and spent time away from his job, in an effort to focus more on himself and his friends and family. Kay believes this recent awareness, along with having an increased appreciation for the people in his life rather than material possessions, will help him succeed not only in his personal life, but also in Gabon where he is determined to make a big impression on his competitors.
September 22, 2008
