Meet Nicky Papagiannakis

Today, I had the chance to speak with Nicky Papagiannakis, a brilliant student at Vanier College in Montreal, about her town, her goals, her passion and self-love. She’s a touching and wonderful person, who’ll definitely be changing the world, one forest at a time. 

HC: Hi Nicky! To start us off, can you tell us what your hometown is?

Nicky: Laval. 

HC: Great, you still live there, correct? How do you like it?

Nicky: Yes I do. It’s okay. There’s not much to do. It’s rather boring sometimes. Far from transport, so slightly inconvenient and crime rate blasted up a bit, but over all I like it.

HC: Good to have a lukewarm recommendation! So, I understand that you used to study Health Sciences at Vanier College, but what and where are you studying now?

Nicky: I’m currently back at Vanier, because they have the wildlife and environmental management tech program that I died trying to get into and finally did during the summer ! So I said [censored] you Concordia! Thanks for accepting me in biology, but bye!

HC: Ha! I might have to censor your response a tad, but that’s pretty funny. So what exactly made you chose the wildlife and environmental management tech program?

Nicky: Oh sorry about that! I chose it because of my love for all flora and fauna of the world. I’ve always felt like I was meant to help and give back to the earth. And I never wanted a desk job, I’d rather have the forest. It’s my passion from childhood, to be honest: researching, and helping the environment. 

HC: That’s beautiful! What are your goals for the next year? Related to your major or otherwise!

Nicky: For the next year I will hopefully have a part time job, get some volunteer work in, stay in a relationship with someone, and get into shape. Work on myself and my goals.

HC: I love that. Do you have any advice for your younger self?

Nicky: Be more confident. Be more positive. And don’t suffer so much. You do everything you can and you will be great later I promise you. Things get better and people love you. And someone will love you. Also be weird. As weird as possible. Don’t hide that ever

HC: Beautiful! Since we’re talking so much about love and self-acceptance, can you tell me something you love about yourself?

Nicky: Hmm… I love that I’m open minded and caring. I can’t leave anything hurt or without help. It pains me in a way. I’m open minded to everything. Every change. Everyone. 

HC: Thank you so much for that! Final question: can you leave us with your favourite quote?

Nicky: “Laughter is the best medicine. The cool thing is you can’t OD and the refills are free” – Rob Paulsen

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