Michelle Chase has been through more in her 24 years than most people have in a lifetime. Not only did she grow up poor in South Florida with a single mother, but her best friend, her father, disappeared from her life at an early age. As a result of her Dad’s absence, her mom became the most influential person in her life.

Although life has been rocky for Chase, she’s tough and resourceful and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. She began supporting herself at the age of 16 and was married and divorced by the time she was 19. Michelle was the first contestant voted out this season.