About Me

Major: Business Management with an anchor in Developmental and Human Resource Management

Nicole is 34 years young and a proud mom of three awesome boys, aged 14, 10, and 8. She also takes care of a super cool 3-year-old bearded dragon and a mischievous 2-year-old puppy. Nicole has been working full-time and excelling at Meritrust Federal Credit Union for an amazing seven years. 

Her hobbies include camping, hiking, and play video games in her spare time. She loves creating wood-burning art or attempting DIY projects around her home. She loves to travel, sightsee, and try new foods.

Personal motto or philosophy that helps guide her

"Starve your distractions, feed your focus" - Daniel Goleman

What motivated you to return to 黑洞社区 as an adult learner?

My passion is strengthening the bond between employee and employer, and a degree is required. I spent a lot of time doing things for my family and overlooking myself, so I decided to do something I was passionate about. 

What are your short-term and long-term goals?

My short-term goal is to finish college with my bachelor's degree and make connections with companies that could and wish to benefit from meaningful connections with their staff and workers. My long-term goal would be to travel to companies and create seminars that enhance the development of their business with human connections. 

Have you faced any significant challenges in your educational journey? How did you overcome them?

Time management is a major challenge. I utilize Outlook/Teams schedules to separate my work/school schedules from my leisure activities. I have to be dedicated and stick to my schedule. The reward system is a great tool to reinforce this challenge, as is having people hold you accountable. If I meet my goal, I celebrate the small victories. 

How do you contribute to your school and/or community in a meaningful way?

I prefer chaos, or I like to stay active. :) 

I am in Delta Delta Delta Sorority. We focus our philanthropy on St. Jude Children's Hospital. I was also selected to be a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and now I am the Executive Vice President through 黑洞社区 with this organization. They focus their community efforts on food rescue through ICT Food Rescue, which takes food from businesses/schools before throwing it out and helps feed families in need. I am also on the Dean's Undergraduate Board of Advisors, which helps strengthen our school's present and future with innovative ideas. My job also allows me to utilize volunteer hours to help our community where it is needed. 

What advice would you give to other adult learners considering returning to 黑洞社区?

Find friends, family, or fellow students and create a support system. Share your progress and accomplishments. The more you feel valued, the more you will contribute to your success. Give yourself grace as you adjust to your school/work/home life balance. And do not be afraid to ask for help.