Despite the callous remarks of Simon, the satisfied comments from Paula and the real deal from Randy, the energized cheers of the crowd could be heard over everything else.

Last night in HUB Alumni Hall, about 100 people came out to see the first Penn State Idol, part of Homecoming 2005, which showcased some of Penn State's most talented singers.

The judges, impersonators of the real American Idol judges Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson, narrowed the contestants down to three finalists, who were then chosen based on the crowd's applause.

Winner Mark Wendel (sophomore-architecture) was chosen by the audience for his rendition of "In the Still of the Night," by The Five Satins.

Wendel said he started singing in eighth grade, performing in musical theater and various theater productions. "I chose the song this morning, had class all day and had no time to practice before the competition," Wendel said. "I was really shocked when I won because I had seen all these incredible singers before me."

Several audience members jumped from their seats with a banner that said, "Mark is dreamy," when Wendel took the stage.

Simon's impersonator, judge Raya Guruswamy (senior-geography), said Wendel really impressed him. "It takes a ballsy guy to get up on stage by himself and perform the way [Wendel] did," Guruswamy said.

Despite Guruswamy's praise, "Simon" had a joking demeanor throughout the competition, where he bluntly criticized each contestant's singing ability. In one case, Guruswamy said, "If you were a lifeguard on duty and I compared your life-guarding skills to your singing skills, a lot of people would be drowning right now."

Students performed a cappella songs like Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)," and several singers were accompanied by piano and guitar.

Students frequently booed Guruswamy's harsh responses and cheered loudly when the contestants finished their songs.

Homecoming Special Events Overall Nicole Stanzione said she was really happy with how the Penn State Idol competition turned out.

"It was better than I could have dreamed," Stanzione said. "There were so many genres -- everyone did a wonderful job."

During the performances, homecoming Overall Chairperson Tara Burnham and King and Queen Overall Jennifer Hernandez introduced the homecoming committee and the homecoming court.

Monique Cottman (senior-elementary education) said she is looking forward to next year's Penn State Idol. "The judges were the best part, especially Simon," Cottman said.