HOUSTON -- Hundreds of Houstonians lined up for hours at Local 2's studios for a shot to be the next apprentice.

The first candidates arrived Thursday at 9 p.m., 12 hours before the audition process even began.

The hopefuls wanted a shot at appearing on either the original "The Apprentice," with Donald Trump, or the newly planned spin-off, with Martha Stewart.

One candidate tried to earn brownie points by bringing homemade presents for the interviewers.

"I thought it would be fun to showcase my talent and also to stand out," interviewee Mandy Blackwell said.

Others just wanted to be themselves.

"I would be the perfect apprentice because I'm so down-to-earth," interview Ava Smith said.

Many candidates were wrapped in blankets as they waited outside the southwest Houston studios for hours. Some were prepared for the chilly waiting period.

"So I got off work, went home, cleaned up, and got my overnight survival gear. I wanted to be prepared. I wanted to be early and just see what it's going to be like," interviewee Kevin Jones said.

Others brought ideas to the table.

"What's my angle? I'm not a Martha guy and I thought that's the whole point -- Martha for men. So that's the campaign I came up with," interviewee Tom King said.

Each candidate in line between 9 a.m. until noon received a wristband, which guaranteed an interview with a casting representative.

"We're looking for people who have an opinion and are willing to say it -- not give us those pat answers and look at me, like, 'What does she want me to say?' More like, 'This is what I think and I believe it and nothing is going to change my mind,'" said Kristina McGann, with The Apprentice.

Interviewees were questioned and debated in groups of 10 for the first interview at Local 2. Those who made an impression will be asked back for a future round.

For more information on how to apply and the rules, visit www.nbc.com.