Model Diaries with Nikki Rodriguez

Photographed by Kelsey Hale
Styled by Daniela Romero

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?
The absolute first thing that I do is make myself an Iced Americano, which is apparently controversial, as I’ve recently been told that you’re supposed to wait 90 minutes before drinking caffeine after waking up. But I genuinely cannot imagine my life without a coffee first thing in the morning.

How do you start your day creatively?
I like to listen to podcasts or music, and if I have enough time, I'll go on a morning walk.

What was your first acting role?
My first role was on Speechless, which was filmed in a studio lot. I was so nervous, but at the same time, it was so exhilarating to be on a TV set for the first time. I left thinking, “Wow, I want to do this forever.”

Did you always know you wanted to act?
Yeah, I did. I remember being 8 years old and wanting to call casting directors to ask if I could come in and audition. I’ve always wanted to be an actor, and so many people told me it was impossible. But it doesn’t matter what anyone thinks. If you believe in yourself, work really, really hard, and never give up, the wildest dreams are possible.

Who has been your biggest inspiration in your career so far?
Angelina Jolie’s performance in Girl, Interrupted was so captivating to me. And every single time I’ve seen Viola Davis on screen, I leave feeling wildly inspired.

Can you tell us about your character in My Life with the Walter Boys?
I play Jackie Howard. She grew up in New York City and moved to Colorado after a major family tragedy. She’s extremely driven, very Type A, and a bit reserved. She’s very careful not to show her emotions. She’s an overachiever, a people pleaser, with a classic fashion sense, who doesn’t quite fit into her new environment.

What’s your favorite scene you’ve ever filmed?
I am on the record for saying that my favorite scene to film in season 2 was the night scene at the rodeo because we saw the northern lights. But it was also because one of our crew members found a kitten, and we got to watch it grow up for the rest of the season. 

Is there a role you’ve always dreamed of playing?
There’s not a specific role that comes to mind, but I’d love to do something that requires physical training or stunt choreography, like an action film. I’ve never done anything like that, but I love learning new skills, and I think I’d really enjoy that.

How do you balance work, social media, and your personal life?
Honestly, I don’t. I’m actually really bad at that. Partly because I love what I do so much, I get to film with my best friends, and social media is a part of all of that. So, work can be very all-encompassing, but I don’t know if I’d have it any other way. When I’m not filming, I try to spend my time in nature, working with animals, traveling, or doing something that I find fulfilling.

What’s your favorite way to unwind?
I’m a huge self-care girl. There is nothing better than lighting my favorite candle and doing a full skincare routine.

What’s your go-to outfit when you want to feel confident?
I love taking a risk and trying new things, and I like exploring which trends speak to me. But when I want to feel most confident, my go-to is a laid-back outfit like a white tank top, wide-leg jeans, and a kitten heel. It feels so classic, casual, and cool. It just makes me feel the most like me.

Sneakers, heels, or boots?
Literally all of the above. But 99% of the time, I am in sneakers. Right now, I’m really loving the Onitsuka Tigers and the Adidas Taekwondo shoes.

If you could raid anyone’s closet, who would it be?
Taylor Russell or Bella Hadid.

What’s one beauty product you can’t live without?
Hourglass’ Veil Hydrating Skin Tint Foundation.

What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
I am such a huge perfectionist, which can be really challenging in a creative industry because you have no control over anything at all. But I’m trying not to be so perfect all of the time, or at least to be okay with not being so perfect. Because life is messy and beautiful, and some of the best art comes from 
imperfection.

Current binge-watch?
Alice in Borderland.

If you could travel anywhere tomorrow, where would it be?
Costa Rica. I love it there so much. I went last year, and I want to go back because it’s one of my favorite places in the world.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. I think it can be really scary to put yourself out there and ask for what you want, but if you don’t try, you’ll never know. And what if everything works out?

Who in Hollywood would you love to collaborate with?
Emerald Fennell. I was so inspired by Promising Young Woman and Saltburn. She has such a raw and unique point of view that really speaks to me. I think her work is incredible.

What song is on repeat for you right now?
“Favorite Daughter” by Lorde.

Favorite Fall trends you’re loving at the moment?
Oversized striped rugby shirts. I love them paired with jeans or a mini skirt. They’re just so casual and cool, and I love the colors they come in.

Favorite aspect of your Modeliste Cover shoot?
OMG, getting to shoot with all of the animals. They’re so cute. I think I have 75 pictures of the goats on my phone. My two favorite things are fashion and animals, so combining both into this cover shoot was genuinely a dream come true.

Why are you excited to be Modeliste’s next Cover star?
I feel so incredibly blessed; it’s an honor. I loved this shoot so much. I literally had the time of my life. The entire team that worked on this shoot is lovely and some of my favorite people. To be on the cover is crazy. I feel really lucky and grateful.

Any upcoming projects you can share with us?
Well, currently we are filming season 3 of My Life with the Walter Boys. I can’t say anything about it, but it’s been an incredible filming experience so far. I can’t wait for everyone to see it.

What would you like to say to your fans/followers?
I feel so grateful that so many people watch the show. I am overwhelmingly appreciative of all the love and support I’ve received. So, thank you for watching, and thank you for all of the kind messages. It really means everything.