Penn State 'Survivor' update: Rosenberger cleans up self, then the competition

photo CBS Ian Rosenberger

University Park, Pa. -- Tones of home weaved into the 11th episode of "Survivor: Palau," as Penn Stater Ian Rosenberger and his tribemates were reinvigorated by the reward challenge's delectable dishes and letters from loved ones. But the party didn't last very long. As the tribe struggled to solidify already-shaky alliances, they kept viewers questioning whose torch would go dark in the end.

With plans to vote off Stephenie LaGrossa foiled and complicated by the dramatic turn of events at the last tribal council, the Koror women started to consider LaGrossa one of their own. Their realization that the four females outnumbered and could overpower the three men was one of many dynamics that increased the tension at camp.

The classic "Survivor" reward challenge -- the food auction -- lifted the mood of the tribe members, who were hurting for the tastes of home after weeks of camp life. After seeing tribemates win such American favorites as ice cream and cheeseburgers, Rosenberger shelled out $300 of his $500 for a plate of spaghetti, meatballs and garlic bread. But Rosenberger's bliss was tempered when, while sharing a celebratory hug with Jeff Probst, the host complained about the questionable bouquet wafting from Rosenberger. To add injury to insult, Rosenberger was the only tribemate not to have enough cash left to purchase a long-awaited letter from home.

After the tribe members relished each word of their much-needed letters and Rosenberger freshened up with a much-needed bath, the tone turned serious again during the immunity challenge. As the first tribe member to break five ceramic tiles with some strategically thrown coconuts and a bit of luck, Rosenberger claimed immunity and secured himself another three days in the game.

With old alliances being brought into question and new unions being considered, the road to tribal council was a rocky one, as three tribemates' names were tossed around for chopping-block consideration. In the end, the Koror tribe resorted to its original plan to vote out LaGrossa, the last remaining stronghold of Ulong.

Tune in next week to see how Rosenberger and the rest of the competitors fare on "Survivor: Palau," scheduled to air at 8 p.m. Thursday, May 5, on CBS. Roseberger, 23, a native of Ambridge, majored in agricultural extension and educational leadership at Penn State, and served as student government president. To vote for Rosenberger as the favorite "Survivor," go to http://www.cbs.com/primetime/survivor10/vote/popularity.shtml and for Rosenberger's biography, go to http://www.cbs.com/primetime/survivor10/survivors/bio/ian.shtml