Unlocking the Power of Data Analytics for Underserved Students

College graduates make $1.2 million more, on average, during their lifetime than those who don’t. This staggering statistic highlights the importance of higher education in securing a brighter future. However, many underrepresented high schoolers may struggle to envision themselves pursuing a degree in fields like data science, which are crucial for success in the modern job market.

A New Partnership to Bridge the Gap

To address this issue, a partnership between Google, Howard University, and the National Education Equity Lab is launching a groundbreaking program to teach data analytics to students at under-resourced, Title 1 high schools. Starting this fall, students will learn the fundamentals of data analytics through Google’s industry-recognized certification program and gain six college credits from Howard, all for free.

The Importance of Data Analytics

Data science and data analytics are among the fastest-growing fields, with demand expected to grow by 304% over the next 10 years. According to CompTIA, data scientists and data analysts will be in high demand. Google believes that data analytics is critical for individuals to learn due to its rapid growth and high earning potential.

The Program’s Goals and Components

The program aims to build college readiness and worthiness by providing students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in data analytics. Components of the program include:

• Google’s Data Analytics Professional Certification: Students will learn the essentials of data analytics, including exposure to Tableau and SQL, through hands-on projects and case studies.
• College Credits from Howard University: Students will earn six college credits from Howard, preparing them for future college courses.
• Mentorship and Advice: Students will receive mentorship and advice from teaching fellows from Howard University.
• Employer Consortium: Students will gain access to an employer consortium, made up of over 150 companies, including Walmart, Marriott, and Accenture.
• Job Board and Career Support: Students will have access to a job board of entry-level data analytics jobs and receive tips on writing resumes and other job success strategies.

Building Confidence and Unlocking the Future

The program aims to inspire confidence in students, enabling them to succeed in data analytics and preparing them for college and the job market. Ben Vinson, President of Howard University, emphasizes the importance of data science for future success and the need to empower underserved populations to excel in these fields.

Conclusion

This innovative program is a critical step in addressing the gap between underrepresented high schoolers and the opportunities available in data analytics. By providing students with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to succeed, this partnership can help unlock the power of data analytics and unlock the future for these students.

FAQs

Q: Who is eligible to participate in the program?
A: Students from under-resourced, Title 1 high schools are eligible to participate in the program.

Q: What skills will students learn through the program?
A: Students will learn the fundamentals of data analytics, including exposure to Tableau and SQL, through hands-on projects and case studies.

Q: What are the benefits of the program?
A: The program provides students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in data analytics, six college credits from Howard University, and access to an employer consortium and job board.

Q: Is the program only available to students who have prior experience with data analytics?
A: No, the program is designed for students with no prior experience in data analytics.

Q: Will the program help students prepare for college and the job market?
A: Yes, the program aims to build college readiness and worthiness, preparing students for future college courses and the job market.

Author: fortune.com

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