DATAA Student Internship

Driving Action Through Analytics and Analysis (DATAA) Internship Program

Turning community data into real-world impact.

The DATAA (Driving Action Through Analytics & Analysis) Student Internship Program gives UTC students the opportunity to work alongside local nonprofits, healthcare organizations, schools, and government agencies to solve real community challenges through data.

DATAA interns help organizations improve how they collect, manage, analyze, and use information to strengthen programs, measure impact, evaluate outcomes, and improve quality of life across the Chattanooga region.

Examples of DATAA internship project tasks may include:

• Cleaning and organizing program or client data
• Developing data dictionaries and documentation
• Creating dashboards and data visualizations
• Mapping service reach by census tract
• Supporting program evaluation and outcome tracking
• Improving data collection tools and workflows
• Preparing de-identified data for analysis
• Helping organizations use data for grants, reporting, storytelling, and decision-making
• Present findings and recommendations to community partners and stakeholders

Every DATAA internship is unique, providing meaningful, hands-on experience that strengthens both technical skills and community impact.

The DATAA Internship Program is designed for undergraduate and graduate students from a wide range of disciplines who are interested in applying data to solve real-world problems. Whether your interests are in public health, business, computer science, social sciences, nonprofit leadership, education, or community research, DATAA provides an opportunity to gain practical experience while making a meaningful impact. Training, mentorship, and ongoing support will be provided by both the host organization and the Journey Health Foundation Research Center (JHFRC).

Community partners and projects vary each semester. During the application process, students will have the opportunity to learn about participating organizations and indicate their placement preferences before being matched with a host organization based on their interests, skills, availability, and project needs.

Program Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be current, degree seeking UTC undergraduate students in good academic and judicial standing (with a graduation date of Spring 2027 or later).
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Be able to complete all required application steps listed below.
• Be available to work approximately 5-10 hours per week during the semester.

Internship Expectations, Support, and Supervision

DATAA interns are expected to participate fully in the internship experience while representing UTC, JHRFC, and their host organization professionally throughout the semester. 

Internship Expectations

Students selected for the DATAA Internship Program are expected to:

• Remain enrolled as a UTC student in good academic standing throughout the internship.
• Complete scheduled internship hours and responsibilities as defined by the host organization.
• Attend required DATAA trainings, orientation sessions, meetings, and progress check-ins with JHFRC.
• Meet project milestones and deadlines established by the host organization and JHFRC.
• Develop and present a professional poster summarizing the internship project, methods, findings, and community impact at the JHFRC Data Summit and UTC Spring Research & Arts Conference.
• Complete all required reflection, reporting, presentation, and program evaluation activities.

Professional Expectations

Students are expected to:

• Communicate regularly with their host organization supervisor and JHRFC staff, responding promptly to emails and requests.
• Maintain confidentiality and follow all applicable data security, privacy, and organizational policies.
• Represent UTC, JHFRC, and the host organization professionally.
• Follow the UTC Student Code of Conduct and all applicable policies of the host organization.

Support & Supervision

Throughout the internship, students receive mentoring and support from the host organization, the Journey Health Foundation Research Center and URaCE. Regular check-ins, technical guidance, and professional mentoring help students successfully complete their projects while developing practical skills in applied data analytics and community-engaged research.

*Interns typically split their weekly hours between the host organization and the Journey Health Foundation Research Center (at UTC). Reliable transportation to travel to internship sites is required.

Why Apply?

DATAA internships offer more than just work experience - they provide an opportunity to build a professional portfolio while making a meaningful difference in the community. Interns work directly with local organizations on high-impact projects, develop in-demand data and analytical skills, receive individualized mentorship from university and community leaders, and present their work at professional events. Whether your goal is graduate school, a career in data analytics, public health, business, or the nonprofit sector, DATAA provides experience that sets you apart.

Funding

Students selected for a DATAA internship receive a $1,000 stipend funded by the Journey Health Foundation (JHFRC) to support their participation.

To encourage continued engagement throughout the internship, the stipend is distributed in two installments:

• $500 at the beginning of the internship after completing onboarding requirements.
• $500 upon successful completion of the internship, including fulfillment of program requirements and submission of all required deliverables.

Please note that internship funding may affect your financial aid package. Questions regarding financial aid should be directed to the UTC Financial Aid Office.

Application Process

Students interested in participating in the DATAA Internship Program should complete the following steps:

1. Review Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, carefully review the eligibility requirements and internship expectations to ensure you can fully participate in the program.

2. Prepare Your Application Materials

Please submit the following materials with the electronic application:

Cover Letter

Your cover letter should address:

• Your academic experience, including your major, achievements, and extracurricular activities.
• Why you are interested in the DATAA Internship Program.
• What skills, experiences, and perspectives you would bring to the internship.
• How you manage your time and meet deadlines.
• How this opportunity aligns with your academic and career goals.

Resume or CV

Include previous work experience, relevant coursework, technical skills, certifications, research experience, volunteer activities, and any other experiences relevant to the internship.

3. Submit Your Application

Complete the Office for URaCE electronic application and upload your cover letter and resume or CV.

4. Interview Process

Applications will be reviewed by JHFRC staff. Selected applicants will be invited to interview with JHFRC and/or representatives from participating host organizations to discuss their interests, experience, and fit for available internship opportunities.