Portrait of Erik Block

Erik Block

Academic Advisor

Department(s)
Academic Success Center
Phone
702-774-4614

Biography

Erik holds a Bachelor of Arts in English/Mass Communication and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Minnesota State University Moorhead. After grad school, he began working as an adjunct instructor at a small private college in Minnesota, where he eventually served as academic coordinator, online learning coordinator, associate dean of education, and campus administrator, before the closing of the campus in 2017. Erik moved to Las Vegas in 2018 and spent several years working as owner/operator of a trivia company before getting the itch in early 2023 to return to working in higher education, which led to an academic advising position at UNLV’s Academic Success Center. Erik is a self-described “martial arts nerd” who enjoys playing trivia, watching and researching MMA, kickboxing, and spending time with his wife, his two stepchildren, his dog, and his cat.

Advising Philosophy Statement

I find that my advising philosophy continues to grow and change as I continue to grow and change as an advisor and as a person.

As building genuine connections with students is paramount to successful advising, warmth and approachability are central to my philosophy. Asking open-ended questions and allowing space for students to formulate and express thoughtful responses ultimately places them in the driver’s seat and builds their confidence in their ability to make large and important decisions.

I strive to be as prepared as possible for each advising session but also to “expect the unexpected,” remaining flexible and adaptable to the varied needs of the diverse student body we serve.

Ultimately, I see my role as helping students to determine, define, and enhance their strengths, skills, and values with an eye toward achieving their short- and long-term goals, both personal and professional.

Pronouns: He/Him/His