Her Story
About Nicola
Nicola Waldron is an award-winning writer, educator, and creative professional based in Columbia, South Carolina. She serves as a Senior Instructor at the University of South Carolina, where she teaches creative writing, critical reading, composition, literature, and advanced writing. Her academic background includes a BA and MA in English Language and Literature from the University of Cambridge and an MFA in Creative Writing, Non-Fiction, from Bennington College. Her work as a writer encompasses creative nonfiction, memoir, personal essays, poetry, fiction, reviews, and children's literature.
Beyond the classroom, Nicola brings a multidisciplinary approach to her work through her experience as a yoga instructor, counselor, voice talent, and community writing workshop leader. She has taught gentle yoga, meditation, and Yoga & Word, combining creative expression with wellness and self-awareness. Her professional services also include writing, copywriting, editing, blogging, public speaking, executive and life coaching, and team building. She has also worked with diverse groups and individuals, emphasizing inclusiveness, inquiry, compassion, and creative collaboration.
Nicola's literary career has earned recognition through numerous publications, honors, and awards. Her poetry has been featured on Columbia, South Carolina's Comet bus system, and she has been shortlisted for the Bridport Prize for her poem "Sickroom" and named runner-up for the Nilsen First Novel Award. She has also participated in literary events and conferences, including NonfictioNOW, and continues to explore the connections between writing, literature, wellness, and human experience. Through her teaching, creative work, and service to others, Nicola is committed to using storytelling and creative practice in what she describes as "creative service to humanity."
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Nicola
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to authenticity, creativity, perseverance, compassion, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Throughout my career as a writer, educator, activist, and professor, I have found the greatest fulfillment in helping others discover and express their own voices. I believe in using my work to make a positive impact, remaining open to growth, and continually evolving through writing, wellness, service, and meaningful connections with others.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to trust the path that feels genuinely my own and not measure success by someone else’s definition. I’ve learned to remain open to reinvention and allow different passions, such as writing, teaching, activism, wellness, and service, to come together naturally. I also believe in the importance of mentors, supportive communities, and meaningful relationships that encourage me to find and use my voice with confidence.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to build strong support systems that help them follow their authentic path. When that support isn’t available, don’t let it discourage you—trust yourself and stay committed to the path that feels right for you. Today, the internet also makes it easier to find mentors, communities, and people who can provide encouragement and support.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I believe being a woman can be an advantage in today’s professional environment, as there is a growing effort to create greater balance and representation. When I started my career, my industry was largely male-dominated, but that has changed significantly. Today, there are more opportunities for women to contribute, lead, and build successful careers.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value self-awareness, emotional well-being, and empathy in both my work and personal life. Yoga has been an important part of maintaining balance and staying grounded, helping me understand my own emotional and energetic state while also becoming more compassionate and aware of what others may be experiencing.
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