Her research explores issues of self-presentation, relationship development, and identity in online environments such as online dating and social network sites. Nicole received her Ph.D in Communication Theory and Research from the Annenberg School for Communication at the University of Southern California in 1999. Currently she is exploring ad-hoc collaboration in social network sites, perceptions regarding the acceptability of profile discrepancies in online dating profiles, and the role of social media in relation to college-going activities among low-income youth.