Nikki Blonsky is one cool chick.

Nikki Blonsky, best known for her role as Tracy Turnblad in the hit movie-musical Hairspray, stopped by the University of Central Florida today to give an inspiring speech and do a meet-and-greet with students.

In the speech, she talked about life before, during, and after Hairspray, including some harrowing family events that many members of the audience were surely shocked to hear. She described her relationship with her late grandmother and uncle, following her passion and getting to play her dream role, and the hectic life of the big screen and beyond. She then had a Q&A with students, and even gave a wonderful impromptu performance of "Good Morning, Baltimore".

"I hope that when you leave here, you think of me as 'my friend Nikki Blonsky,' instead of just 'Nikki Blonsky, that girl from Hairspray!'" expressed the star.

I personally really enjoyed getting to hear from (and ask a question of!) this talented and clearly very strong young woman. She was gracious and funny and gave some really personal insight into her life, which I really appreciated. I wish her the best in her life and future career, and I hope that she has a fantastic 21st birthday (November 9th)! Hopefully the hardworking UCF CAB will continue to book awesome guest speakers like Ms. Blonsky.

I'm looking forward to SoJam in North Carolina this weekend with CAC (Contemporary A Capella) and homecoming next week! Will I participate in the traditional "Spirit Splash" this year with the inevitable pool of diseases it allows for?

Only time and possible illness will tell, folks.