Faculty Profile for Dr. Erika Nielson Vargas

Biography Section

Biography and Education

Erika K. Nielson, Ph.D., is the Director of the Common Experience, Common Reading Coordinator, New Student Convocation Chair, and Senior Lecturer in University College. She received a B.A. in Anthropology from Texas A&M University, an M.A. in Reading Education from The University of Texas of the Permian Basin, and a Ph.D. in Developmental Education, Literacy Specialization from Texas State University. Dr. Nielson is also a yoga student of 24 years and a yoga teacher of 20 years. Her research focus includes educators and students in pre-kindergarten through higher education engaging in mindfulness, self-compassion, and yoga practices, and their understanding and observations of those practices, as well as the literacy practices of adult learners.

Teaching Interests

Reading, Writing, Integrated Reading & Writing, Literacy, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Study Skills, University Seminar, First Year Experience, Career Planning, Research skills

Research Interests

Literacy, Mindfulness practices, Mental Health, Music & Literacy, Common reading, Reading practices