New Razorback Analytics Fellowship Prepares Students for Data Analytics Careers

U of A students entering their junior or senior year can now gain hands-on analytics experience while working as part-time university employees through the new Razorback Analytics Fellowship.

The Razorback Analytics Fellowship, launched last month by the Department of Strategic Data and Process Innovation, invests in U of A students by preparing them for careers in data analytics.

The fellowship offers juniors and seniors enrolled in analytics-related degree programs hands-on experience working on complex data projects that support university operations.

"One of the best ways to support student success is to provide opportunities to learn through experience," said Jannette Akridge, associate vice chancellor for Strategic Data and Process Innovation and interim CIO. "Through the Razorback Analytics Fellowship, students gain real-world experience that helps them stand out and succeed in an increasingly data-driven workforce."

Razorback Analytics fellows build practical, career-ready skills by working on analytics projects informed by university data. Fellows develop experience in areas such as:

• Designing and building Power BI dashboards

• Analyzing and transforming data to support decision-making

• Communicating with project stakeholders across campus

• Translating data into clear, compelling stories and insights

Razorback Analytics fellows earn $15 an hour as part-time employees of the U of A and collaborate with campus partners to design dashboards, develop reports and generate data-informed insights that help improve university operations. Fellows work between 10-20 hours each week, depending on their schedules.

"There is a high demand for experienced data analysts, but there are too many applicants for entry-level positions," said Riley Davis, director of strategic operations and campus partnerships for Strategic Data and Process Innovation. "This fellowship provides our students with the entry-level experience to prepare them for the next level as they enter their careers after graduation."

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026-2027 academic year. Applicants must be entering their junior or senior year and be enrolled in an analytics-related degree program.

"This fellowship is a significant step towards promoting student success," Davis said.  "We are investing our resources so students can learn from the business side of the university. This opportunity will help students begin their careers with confidence."

The application process involves interviews with Davis and Victoria Jones, the fellowship manager. Applicants are encouraged to have their resume ready, along with any previous analytics work they would like to show.

"We've already seen strong interest from students who are eager to apply what they've learned in a professional setting," Jones said.  "I'm excited to support them as they gain the confidence and practical experience they'll carry with them into their careers."

Please email Jones at vijones@uark.edu for more information.