Nicole Laeno is a dancer, content creator, and lifestyle influencer known for her high-energy choreography and relatable day-in-the-life videos, inspiring a Gen Z audience across TikTok and YouTube.
When you first imagined your college journey, what did you hope it would look like, and how has that vision changed?
Going into college, I definitely imagined having that “perfect” college experience where everything just falls into place. But over time, I’ve realized that life isn’t meant to be perfect — it’s more of an ongoing learning and growth journey. My perspective has shifted a lot, and I’ve learned to embrace change instead of fearing it. College has really helped me discover more about who I am and who I want to become, and I think that’s way more valuable than anything being “perfect.”
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during the transition into college, and how did you navigate them?
One of the biggest challenges for me was finding balance. It felt like there was so much going on all at once, and I had to figure out how to manage my time and energy. What helped me was creating routines, using to-do lists and a planner, and being more intentional with how I spent my time. I also learned the importance of leaning on my friends for support and not putting too much on my plate at once.
How have you discovered ways to stay motivated and build a sense of belonging on campus?
I’ve found that getting involved in things I genuinely care about has made the biggest difference. Joining clubs and organizations where I’m surrounded by like-minded people who share similar goals has helped me feel more connected. Being on the dance team, getting involved in a Filipino club, and joining faith groups have all given me a strong sense of community and motivation.
With everything you’re balancing, how do you ensure you’re taking care of your mental and physical health?
I’ve learned that taking care of myself has to be a priority, especially with everything I have going on. I try to be intentional about making time for self-care and alone time, whether that’s going on solo dates, grabbing food, going to church, or even just going on a hot girl walk. I also remind myself that rest is productive, and it’s okay to slow down when I need to.
What advice would you give to students who are just starting the college application process?
I would say trust the process. It’s easy to stress and feel discouraged, but everything really does happen for a reason. Rejection is redirection, and you will end up exactly where you’re supposed to be. Just stay true to yourself and trust that it will all work out.
