I am currently a full-time college student pursuing a career as a physician assistant, but it is not my true passion. I have done freelance modeling for about 2 years now and I can honestly say nothing has ever brought me as much joy. However, I run into the same issues almost everytime: size. I do not fit the runway or plus-size criteria. I am consistently passed over for size 00-4 and plus-size models by photographers and designers. I have excessively dieted and exercised to the point malnourishment. I am stuck in the gray area and I am ready for the chance to step out of it and see the light. I am no longer going to change myself to fit an ideal, rather encourage that the ideal be more accepting to all shapes, sizes, and colors.

Of course, I dream of walking in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show or for luxury brands like Prada and Tommy Hilfiger. What would tell me that I have really made it is when I am seen as a role model and image for girls like me. I have a younger sister who was struggling in school with bullying. Being through it myself, I had given her advice on what had helped me through it. My father overheard the conversation and told her, "Whatever you do, look up to Nicole because she is not just your older sister but one who holds that title with grace." I immediately started to tear up. Hearing someone else, even your own father, refer to you as a role model held a lot of weight to me. I want to be that for other people. Not just those in my family or social groups.

As I stated in the about me section, I constantly looked over for my size. I want to change the rhetoric that smaller is more beautiful. I want to be a part of campaigns, shows, and photoshoots that include people from all walks of life. Why not showcase the beauty and diversity our world has to offer? On a very personal level, I want to promote mental health awareness. Since the age 8 of years old, I struggled with chronic depression and anxiety. Growing up, it was something I kept secret from my peers and teachers. I felt alone and misunderstood. I am tired of therapy being seen as "taboo". At the end of the day, we all struggle in some way. What you do to overcome this, is what really matters.