Bridging to AI and Data Science Careers Through Experiential Learning and Training
Program Overview:
ExLENT: NSF-funded, Data Crossings is a transformative, year-long program designed to open the world of data science and AI to a new generation of explorers – college students from non-STEM majors and adult learners seeking to expand or pivot their careers. Led by faculty from the Lucy Family Institute for Data & Society at the University of Notre Dame, and supported by industry and community partners across Indiana, the program blends hands-on practice, interdisciplinary learning, and career-focused experiences to prepare participants for the jobs of tomorrow.
Through engaging workshops, interactive studios, and real-world capstone projects, participants gain both technical literacy and the “superskills” employers seek, such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and creativity. By pairing learners from diverse fields and life stages, Data Crossings fosters a collaborative, peer-mentoring environment where participants learn not only from faculty and industry leaders, but also from each other.
Key Features
- Explorations Course: A two-semester, no-coding introduction to data science and AI that covers data literacy, design thinking, business acumen, and problem-oriented decision-making.
- Experiential Learning Studios: Small group sessions with faculty mentors and external partners where participants tackle practical challenges in areas such as healthcare, sustainability, manufacturing, and community innovation.
- Capstone Project: Team-based projects addressing authentic industry or societal problems, culminating in professional presentations to business and community leaders.
- Superskill Workshops: Training in leadership, communication, ethics, entrepreneurship, and collaboration to prepare participants for real-world impact.
- Internships & Fellowships: In-situ learning through summer internships with Indiana companies or the Research and Industry Scholarly Exchange Fellowship Program (RAISEuP) for working professionals.
What Makes It Unique
- Mixed Cohorts: University students and adult learners work side-by-side, building bridges between academia, industry, and society.
- No Prior Experience Required: The program uses intuitive, plug-and-play tools, making data science accessible to all backgrounds.
- Stipend Support: Each participant receives a $5,000 stipend, with no tuition or program costs. Internships are additionally compensated.
- High-Impact Partnerships: Collaborations with local companies, community organizations, and nonprofits provide a direct pipeline to careers in data science and AI.
Contact Information:
To learn more or get in touch, please contact the program team at exlentdc@nd.edu.
