University Of Montana Alum Wins Big On The Price Is Right

Nearly every viewer who has watched The Price Is Right has probably had the exact same thought as I had when i would stay home from school sick. "I could do better than that."

Most of us yell our guesses at the TV, laugh when someone bids a dollar over another contestant, and then go on with our day. But Allison McJannet, a graphic designer for the University of Montana, went for it and won BIG.

She turned a bucket list trip into a real experience competing on the show. Allison shared the behind-the-scenes story of that dream-fulfilling journey with the Griz community.

CREDIT: Allison McJannet

A Bucket List Trip Turned Into A Huge Win

Allison and her Mom, Jenny, made the trip to California for the taping of the show. It didn't take long before Allison heard those 3 words along with her name. "Come On Down!" She was the first contestant called to Contestants' Row that episode.

Allison ultimately took home cash and prizes worth a total of $36,674, including a Martha Stewart co-branded ring, cash won through the Punch-a-Bunch game, a Las Vegas travel package, a racetrack driving experience, cabaret show tickets, a Vespa scooter, and a Volkswagen Taos SUV.

Frederick M. Brown, Getty Images

Keeping The Secret Was Almost Harder Than Winning

The show finished recording in August 2025 and did not officially air until June 30th, 2026, meaning the mother and daughter had to keep their excitement hidden for nearly 10 months.

On top of that, the show's rules bar contestants from competing again for 10 years, so Allison joked that she felt like she had been added to a "no-fly list."

I couldn't imagine having to keep my excitement a secret for that long. But she somehow made it happen.

Frederick M. Brown, Getty Images

A Win The Entire Griz Community Can Celebrate

Missoula has produced its share of talented people over the years, but it's always fun seeing a Griz alum represent western Montana on national television. Which you can watch right now on demand via Paramount Plus.

The best part of Allison's story isn't really the SUV or the Vegas trip. It is about taking chances and making dreams come true. Nice work!