Offering Real-World Opportunities for Students Enrolled in Statistics and Data Science Undergraduate Research

Cohort: 2023
Fellow: Layla Guyot

There is a need for offering data analysis support to our local communities. While many undergraduates
enrolled in our courses have expressed interest in conducting data analysis research projects, our department
doesn’t currently have a systematic way to offer these types of experiences. Thus, the primary goal of this
community-based service project is to provide both experiential learning and research opportunities for
undergraduates while supporting the broader Austin-area. Specifically, this project will coordinate with local
organizations to offer real-world research opportunities for students enrolled in a certificate in statistics and
data sciences. This project will include: students connecting with local organizations to offer statistical
support, local organizations providing authentic contexts for undergraduate research, and faculty supervising
undergraduate research in coordination with local organizations. This innovative and collaborative effort
provides a community-based model that allows students and local organizations to co-develop and answer
authentic research questions. The organizations will have access to a free resource to support their work while
giving UT students agency in the investigations they wish to pursue.