Melinda Hyder in "Survivor: Panama - Exile Island"
Melinda Hyder was born and raised in Elizabethton, Tennessee. Melinda Hyder has one sister, Regina, and is proud to point out that her parents, Richard and Carol, were high school sweethearts and have been married for 44 years. Melinda Hyder began singing in church at the age of four. She trained in ballet, tap, jazz and gymnastics for 12 years. Melinda Hyder attended classes and taught at the Watt Dance Studio in Elizabethton.
Melinda Hyder graduated with honors in music and math from Elizabethton High School. She then attended East Tennessee State University in Johnson City on a full vocal scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music. While in college, Melinda Hyder performed with the music groups 10BucsWorth, Chorale and Women's Ensemble.
After college, Melinda Hyder entertained at Six Flags over Georgia for two years. She then toured Europe while performing on a cruise ship. Melinda Hyder also spent six years performing at Dollywood (often times with Dolly Parton). In addition, she has worked as a real estate agent, private vocal coach, dance instructor, pageant coach and model.
Melinda Hyder describes herself as vivacious, competitive and compassionate. Melinda Hyder's hobbies include creative home decorating, collecting Marilyn Monroe memorabilia, watching CBS soap operas and jogging.
Currently single, Melinda Hyder resides in Sevierville, Tennessee, with her Pomeranian, Lexi. Melinda Hyder's birth date is May 23, 1973.
Voted off on episode 1