Nicole is a PhD candidate at NYU School of Medicine, where she investigates the molecular mechanisms of neurodevelopment using the model organism C. elegans. Growing up, education was never just an obligation it was the place she turned to when she needed to think, explore, and make sense of the world. That personal relationship with academic spaces is what drives her belief that every student deserves to feel seen, safe, and supported in their pursuit of knowledge. Nicole's journey with Clear Direction Mentoring began as a mentor with the New York Chapter, where she experienced firsthand the transformative power of sustained, meaningful mentorship. Now bringing that energy to the executive board, she is committed to building the infrastructure CDM needs to deepen its impact and develop mentorship programs that are not only effective but everlasting.