Nicki Minaj’s “High School Challenge” Takes Social Media by Storm in 2025

In July 2025, the internet is ablaze with the “High School Challenge,” a viral sensation inspired by a memorable pose from Nicki Minaj’s 2013 music video for “High School” featuring Lil Wayne. The challenge, rooted in a scene where Minaj squats low by a pool in a pink bikini and golden heels, legs crossed and feet flat on the ground, has captivated fans, influencers, and celebrities alike. What began as a nostalgic nod to Minaj’s iconic style has evolved into a global test of balance, strength, and creativity, dominating platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X with millions of views and countless recreations.

The Origin of the Challenge

The “High School” music video, released on April 3, 2013, remains a cultural touchstone, boasting over 356 million YouTube views as of July 2025. Directed by Benny Boom, the video showcases Minaj’s bold persona, with the poolside squat becoming one of its most memorable moments. The pose, exuding confidence and athleticism, caught renewed attention when a TikTok user reposted a clip of it in early July 2025, amassing nearly five million views. This sparked a wave of recreations, with fans challenging themselves to mimic Minaj’s stance, often adding their own flair by balancing on unconventional surfaces like stacked dumbbells, wine bottles, mailboxes, or even sailboats.

The challenge’s appeal lies in its blend of glamour and physical prowess. Participants typically wear high heels—often designer brands like Christian Louboutin’s So Kate pumps or even pointe shoes—to amplify the difficulty, testing their core strength and balance. The hashtag #HighSchoolChallenge has exploded on TikTok, racking up millions of views, while X posts celebrating the trend, like @onikacrown’s “Nicki Minaj’s high school pose is currently taking over TikTok yeah this is her internet 😭😭😭,” highlight Minaj’s enduring influence.

Celebrities and Influencers Join the Fray

The challenge has drawn a star-studded roster of participants, each adding their unique spin:

• Ciara, the R&B superstar, stole the spotlight with a flawless recreation, squatting atop two stacked dumbbells in six-inch heels. Her Instagram post, which garnered over 700,000 likes, drew praise from fans and X users alike, with comments like “She ate this up” and “Ciara just ended the challenge.” Her poised execution and glamorous aesthetic set a high bar for others.
• Natasa Stankovic, a fitness enthusiast and actress, showcased her core strength by balancing on dumbbells in heels while casually holding a cup. Her Instagram video went viral, captioned with a cheeky “Just balancing life like…,” resonating with fans who admired her effortless cool.
• Jane Mena, a Nigerian dancer, took the challenge to new heights by squatting on a chair in heels while breastfeeding her toddler. Her innovative take earned widespread applause on TikTok, with viewers marveling at her multitasking prowess and creativity.
• Kristy Sarah, a TikTok influencer, arguably set the gold standard with a video that amassed over 70 million views. Balancing on stacked dumbbells with one leg extended, her performance led some fans to declare, “Kristy Sarah won this trend,” cementing her as a standout in the challenge’s viral wave.
• Basbaasbaby, another TikTok creator, left jaws dropping by performing the pose on a sailboat, earning over 210,000 likes. The daring setting sparked debates on X about whether the video was AI-generated, with users marveling at the seemingly impossible balance.

From beaches to rooftops, participants have pushed the boundaries of creativity, incorporating high-fashion outfits and unconventional props. Some have even attempted the pose in pointe shoes, adding a balletic twist, while others have stacked multiple objects to heighten the challenge’s intensity.

Nicki Minaj’s Stamp of Approval

Nicki Minaj herself has embraced the trend, acknowledging its spread on Instagram with a post that boosted its visibility. Her endorsement has fueled the challenge’s momentum, with fans on X and TikTok celebrating her as the catalyst for yet another cultural moment. Posts like “Nicki’s influence is unmatched” and “The queen stays winning” reflect the sentiment that Minaj’s legacy continues to shape pop culture, even 12 years after “High School” first dropped.

The song itself, a collaboration with Lil Wayne from Minaj’s 2012 album Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded – The Re-Up, peaked at No. 64 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a fan favorite. The video’s lavish aesthetic and Minaj’s commanding presence have kept it relevant, with the challenge breathing new life into its legacy.

Safety Concerns and Cultural Impact

While the “High School Challenge” has been a source of fun and creativity, it hasn’t been without controversy. The precarious nature of balancing on objects like bottles or dumbbells, often in heels, has raised safety concerns. Some X users and health professionals have urged participants to exercise caution, warning of potential injuries from falls. A few viral videos have shown failed attempts, prompting lighthearted but pointed reminders to prioritize safety.

Beyond the physical risks, the challenge has also sparked discussions about Minaj’s polarizing presence in 2025. Amid ongoing social media spats and a lawsuit filed against her in January 2025 over alleged defamation, some critics have questioned the timing of the trend. However, supporters argue that the challenge is a testament to Minaj’s unmatched influence, with fans on X noting that her ability to inspire viral moments remains unrivaled.

A Testament to Minaj’s Enduring Legacy

The “High School Challenge” is more than just a viral trend—it’s a celebration of Nicki Minaj’s lasting impact on music, fashion, and internet culture. From her chart-topping hits to her boundary-pushing visuals, Minaj has consistently set trends, and this challenge is no exception. As participants continue to push the limits of creativity and athleticism, the #HighSchoolChallenge underscores the power of a single moment in a music video to inspire millions over a decade later.

As of July 23, 2025, the challenge shows no signs of slowing down, with new videos flooding TikTok and Instagram daily. Whether it’s a celebrity nailing the pose or a fan attempting it in their backyard, the “High School Challenge” has solidified Nicki Minaj’s place as a cultural icon whose influence transcends generations. So, grab your heels, find a surface, and join the fun—just don’t forget to balance safely.