Written By Bowie State University
Students who are data enthusiasts can now network and explore a variety of project-based opportunities by participating in the Data Tribe, a College of Business club formed in the fall that enables individuals to learn more about data analytics.
The club creates a safe space for students to share ideas on data related topics and issues while emphasizing the relevance of data analytics and potential career paths in data science, data engineering, analytics, business analysis and other areas. Students have options of engaging in training sessions, research projects, bootcamps, technical lectures, mentorship programs, symposiums and other activities.
“There are numerous career paths for students to pursue in data analytics,” said Bolametiren Akinlaja, Data Tribe club advisor and manager of the Truist Data Analytics Research Trading & Technology Lab . “Data is the engine that drives all industries. Businesses are seeking professionals for a broad range of positions. The club provides students with opportunities to hone their data skills in an open and supportive environment.”
Increasing reliance on big data and predictive analytics to drive business growth has made a career in data science very popular in recent years. The data analytics market size is projected to grow from $7.03 billion in 2023 to $303.4 billion in 2030 with the sharpest increase noted in the predictive analytics segment.
All BSU undergraduate and graduate students regardless of their major who are interested in data science and analytics can join the Data Tribe. Students must have at least a 3.0 GPA to become a member and can participate regardless of their current skill level or research topic.
“We already have over 60 students who are members of the Data Tribe and expect that number to increase dramatically in the spring semester,” said Akinlaga. “Although we’re in the College of Business, the club has students who are majoring in computer science, education and other academic programs. Overall, the Data Tribe serves as a hub for fostering data-related skills, knowledge exchange and career development for students campus-wide.”
Bowie State offers a B.S. degree in data science, an upper division certificate in data analytics and a concentration in data analytics with the B.S. in management information systems.