Teaching & Mentorship

Students learn best when they feel safe, engaged, and curious. I want every student to believe they can succeed, so I focus on giving them the tools to get there. By building an inclusive classroom with plenty of room for humor and discussion, I help students stay invested in what they’re learning.

Instructor of Record

Spring 2026The University of Texas at Austin HDF 315L: Research Methods in Human Development and Family Sciences 5.0/5Overall instructor 4.67/5Overall course 18 of 20Students responded (90%)
  • Gained a deeper understanding of the subject matter 4.83 83% strongly agree · 17% agree
  • The course was well organized 4.83 83% strongly agree · 17% agree
  • Clearly explained course objectives and expectations 4.94 94% strongly agree · 6% agree
  • Fostered an inclusive learning environment 5.00 100% strongly agree
  • Effectively explained concepts and subject matter 5.00 100% strongly agree
  • Instructional techniques kept me engaged 4.89 89% strongly agree · 11% agree
  • Checked for student understanding 5.00 100% strongly agree

Mean ratings on a 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree) scale. Point at a row to see how students answered.

  • “Super interactive! Nicole did a great job making lectures engaging and creating activities that apply the concepts we were learning.”
  • “A very comfortable environment where I felt safe and heard.”
  • “Prof. Richards was really approachable and kind! She was always willing to give feedback and adjust it to meet student needs and comprehension.”

Student comments, Spring 2026 course evaluations

Guest Lecturing and Mentorship

Graduate Teaching Assistant

The University of Texas at Austin, 2022–2026

4.61/5Mean TA rating 144 of 199Students responded (72%) 7Course sections evaluated

Average of all student ratings across seven TA evaluation items, 2023–2025.

Child and family development

  • HDF 313: Child Development 2025, 2026
  • HDF 378L: Theories of Child and Family Development 2024
  • HDF 342: Developmental Psychopathology 2023

Adult development

  • HDF 335: Adult Development 2022

Field experience

  • HDF 652: Field Practicum 2023, 2025
  • HDF 352: Field Experience or Practicum 2022–2023