Biography
I received my B.A. (2005), M.A. (2007), and Ph.D. (2012) in Communication from the University of Arizona. When I am not teaching or researching, I enjoy spending time with my partner, Kevin; our son, Charlie; and our pup. We love sunshine, mountains, music, and the beautiful San Marcos River.
Research Interests
I have always been fascinated with social skills and the ways in which our interactions influence our relational, mental, and physical well-being. Accordingly, my research interests lie at the intersection of relational and health communication, with a focus on navigating health-related interactions and well-being in the context of close relationships, workplace wellness, and social media. Recently, I started exploring the ways in which caregivers communicate with others about their experiences providing care for a loved one. This research is personally meaningful to me, and I am working towards creating a resource that will help caregivers navigate the complex communication inherent in caregiving: https://triciaburke.wp.txstate.edu/caregiving-project/.
Teaching Interests
My scholarship shapes my teaching perspective and contributes to my passion for and dedication to teaching the fantastic students at Texas State. My teaching philosophy is fairly simple: I aspire to be the kind of teacher from whom I would want to learn. I try to be organized, open-minded, and responsive. I often seek and integrate student feedback into my teaching, which helps me understand my students’ perspectives and enables my growth as an instructor. I believe that effective teaching centers on connection: connecting to students; connecting ideas; and connecting material to personal, professional, and community experiences.