20 Bulldogs Gain Hands-On Experience Through Center for Data Analytics Inaugural Summer Research Internship

From housing research to AI-driven innovation, 20 Bowie State students gained hands-on experience tackling real-world challenges through the Center for Data Analytics’ (CDA) inaugural Summer Research Internship Program.  

The program prepares students for careers in data, technology and research and innovation through experiential learning, applied research and community-engaged problem solving. 

Dr. Eona Harrison, director of the CDA, said the internship program was designed to ensure students develop skills aligned with workforce needs. 

"As workforce skill demands evolve, we want to strengthen students' data and AI capabilities by giving them hands-on experience with real-world research methods. Our goal is to equip students with practical skills that give them a competitive edge in today's rapidly changing job market and prepare them to become future business and community leaders." 

Interns participated in faculty-led research and applied analytics projects through an intensive eight-week experiential learning program. Working in interdisciplinary teams, Bulldogs gained practical experience conducting research, analyzing data, and developing solutions to address complex business and community challenges. 

Their work involved collaboration with faculty mentors and community partners to analyze public datasets, explore emerging technologies and apply data-driven approaches to real-world issues. Projects examined topics ranging from AI and business innovation to community well-being, housing and behavioral analytics, while helping students strengthen their technical, analytical, communication and leadership skills. 

The summer program culminated with the INSPIRE Student Showcase in August, held at the College of Business. During the event, each team presented research findings and recommendations to faculty, university leaders, government representatives, industry professionals and community partners who provided mentorship and guidance throughout the summer. 

The showcase welcomed representatives from Prince George's County Government, the U.S. Census Bureau, industry organizations and community stakeholders, demonstrating the CDA's growing role in connecting academic learning with community impact and workforce development. 

Stacie Cochran-McNeal, data dissemination specialist with the U.S. Census Bureau, highlighted the impact of the interns’ work.  

"Working with my student team this summer was phenomenal. It was exciting to see them transform raw data into meaningful insights that address real community challenges."  

Student participants also reflected on the value of applying classroom learning to real-world issues. William-Joseph Yeboah, a junior accounting major, participated in the Community Data & Civic Analytics project. 

"This internship helped me connect what I learned in the classroom to real-world challenges. Working on housing research in Prince George's County showed me how data can be used to inform decisions and better prepare communities for the future."   

Bolametiren (BiBi) Akinlaja, program manager for the CDA, developed the internship program to reinforce the Center's commitment to connecting classroom learning with applied research, community engagement and career preparation. 

"One of the most rewarding aspects of this program was watching students grow in confidence as they applied classroom knowledge to meaningful research projects. Students collaborated with faculty mentors, engaged with external partners and learned how to communicate their findings to diverse audiences. The showcase highlighted not only the quality of their work, but also their growth as researchers, problem-solvers and future leaders." 

The CDA’s Summer 2026 internship program represents a broader commitment to expanding experiential learning opportunities, strengthening community partnerships and preparing the next generation of data-driven innovators and leaders.  

Through initiatives like these, the Center continues to create pathways for students to apply data, research and emerging technologies to challenges that matter to businesses, governments and communities.