This is the true story of a guy and a girl who were picked to live in a house with five other strangers to find out what happens when people stop being polite and start getting real. Yes, Ace and Mallory from the Real World Paris were in State College. They were sitting at The Deli Restaurant, 113 Hiester St., dressed comfortably and casually, Ace in jeans and a Georgia Southern University hat, and Mallory in a sporty sweatshirt and jeans. Ace ordered a Philly cheesesteak and Coke, while Mallory chose an Asian grilled duck salad. The pair could be mistaken for two old friends taking a break between classes to enjoy a quiet lunch.

However, this is far from the truth. A year ago, Ace and Mallory did not know each other at all. They were going to college in completely different parts of the country. Mallory, originally from Palatine, Ill., was a 19-year-old freshman at Iowa State University. She received a soccer scholarship and was playing on the varsity squad. Ace, originally from Statesboro, Ga., was a 23-year-old senior majoring in marketing at Georgia Southern University. He was a member of Kappa Alpha and was busy working in three college bars, which he co-owned.

Both of their lives changed dramatically when they were picked to join the Real World Paris cast. They spent six months living in a luxurious chateau in the suburbs of Paris bonding with each other and their other roommates. Since The Real World, Ace and Mallory have kept in touch. Mallory decided to join Ace on his trip to State College, where he promoted the new Student Crew card and hosted a Mardis Gras party last night at the Crowbar, 420 E. College Ave. Both of them were, at the time, enjoying their stay in the college town.

"It's incredible here," Mallory said.

They took a few minutes out of their State College tour to answer some questions about their Real World experiences.

Why did you want to be on the Real World?

Mallory: Actually, I didn't really want to be on TV. I wasn't happy at school, and when I found out that the next season of The Real World would be in Paris, I decided to try out.

Ace: I had been watching the show for 11 years, since the first season in New York. I guess I grew up watching

the show. I made an audition tape for the Chicago and Las Vegas seasons, but I guess I finally got it right with Paris.

Why do you think you were picked for The Real World?

Mallory: I have no clue! Over 50,000 people auditioned. I can't believe they picked me.

Ace: The tape I sent in was a masterpiece. I went way overboard with it, hot tubs and everything. I was also the only person who typed out the questionnaire, so that probably impressed them too.

What was your reaction when you first saw the house you would be living in?

Mallory: It was amazing. I thought we would be living in a really modern apartment in the city or something, but the train kept going and brought us to this beautiful neighborhood. I saw a mansion and it was definitely not what I expected. It was great.

Ace: My first thoughts were that it looked huge. When I saw the yard, Jacuzzi and pool table, I knew I had all I needed.

What roommate(s) was the easiest for you to get along with?

Mallory: Ace and Christina. Christina was so nice.

Ace: Well Mallory was a little camera shy, but Adam was really easy to get along with.

What role did you play in the house?

Mallory: I guess I was the young, innocent virgin.

Ace: I was the typical redneck. I was the one who loved to party all the time.

Do you think college students can relate to the issues presented on The Real World?

Mallory: Yes, definitely. I think they try to cast people who are going through a transition in their lives and they try to capture that. I think the show shows a whole learning process. A lot of people can relate to the characters, which is why I think the show is so popular.

What were the major differences between French and American culture?

Mallory: Tons! On the Metro everyone was silent. I think this is because the French are more respectful. As Americans, we stuck out like a sore thumb because we were so loud.

Ace: The French keep to themselves and are not very outgoing. They have outstanding healthcare and Metro systems. The French are a little stand-offish, but I don't think they were trying to be impolite, that is just how their culture is. I took me a while to figure that out.

What is it like having your friends and family watch your every move on national television?

Mallory: Not fun. It is strange knowing that everyone is watching you from my friends to my aunt and mom, to my teachers. People see a different side of you, and may see things that they don't expect.

Ace: It wasn't that big of a deal for me. I had a sweet, supportive grandma back at home and I know she will be behind me no matter what I do.

How has your life changed after The Real World?

Mallory: It has changed quite a bit. I'm not at the same school anymore.

Ace: My life hasn't changed that much. I just went back to having a good time managing my bars and nightclub. Now I just make some appearances in other bars and nightclubs, which isn't too different for me.

What are your plans for the future?

Mallory: I plan on going back to school.

Ace: I plan to keep on living life to the fullest and to make everyday count.