Jolien Olsen

Jolien Olsen serves as Composition Program Faculty in the Department of English at Cal Poly Humboldt, where she has taught since 1991. Her career focuses on foundational writing instruction, student development, and innovative pedagogical approaches within undergraduate composition programs.

Her academic credentials include:

• M.A. in the Teaching of Writing from Humboldt State University
• Single Subject Teaching Credential in English from Humboldt State University
• B.A. in English from Humboldt State University
• A.A. from College of the Redwoods

Olsen's research centers on composition pedagogy with emphasis on student-centered learning methodologies, collaborative writing practices, and digital literacy integration. She actively explores mindset theories in educational contexts and develops professional resources for writing instructors, particularly in online learning environments where she implements adaptive teaching strategies to enhance student engagement and confidence.

Her scholarly output bridges creative writing and composition studies, with creative works examining personal narrative and memoir intersecting with academic publications addressing practical classroom challenges in writing instruction. This dual focus demonstrates her commitment to both the art of writing and evidence-based teaching methodologies.

Her creative writing achievements include:

• Notable Essay of 2014 in Best American Essays 2014 for "Traffic."

Olsen mentors undergraduate writers through first-year composition courses and serves as founding advisor for the HSU Cycling Team, extending her educational impact beyond traditional classroom boundaries through experiential learning opportunities.

Her community engagement includes active participation in HSU Athletics as cycling team advisor and integration of local Humboldt County environments into her pedagogical philosophy, reflecting her deep connection to the regional landscape and educational ecosystem.