Faculty Profile for Dr. Erika Nielson Vargas

Biography Section

Biography and Education

Erika K. Nielson, Ph.D., is the assistant director of the Common Experience, Common Reading Coordinator, and Senior Lecturer in University College. She received a B.A. in Anthropology from Texas A&M University, an M.A. in Reading from The University of Texas of the Permian Basin, and Ph.D. in Developmental Education, Literacy Specialization from Texas State University. Dr. Nielson is also a yoga student of 23 years and a yoga teacher of 19 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 Interests

Literacy, Mindfulness practices, Mental Health, Music & Literacy