The Atlanta University Center (AUC) PreFreshman Experience (PFx) summer program offers incoming HBCU students a chance to engage in data science before the start of their first year. Throughout the one-week program, students will explore applications of data science and learn about different career opportunities. The program will provide an immersive experience in a data science project with a college professor and research mentors. Students will engage in excellent networking opportunities with data science scholars and professionals, as well as with HBCU students from across the nation.
This one-week paid virtual program exposes incoming HBCU students to data science opportunities and how to use data on issues affecting Black America. This year’s theme is “Innovating Through The Power of Data” and projects will incorporate research topics that solve societal challenges through data insights and innovation.
Participants will engage in research-driven projects that apply data science to solve societal challenges through data-driven insights and innovation.
🔍 Benefits & What to Expect
Get ready for an energizing week of exploration, collaboration, and discovery! The PFX 2025 program will run daily from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM (ET), offering a full schedule of interactive learning and connection.
Throughout the week, you’ll:
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Learn by doing – Dive into real-world data projects that connect to social impact and community change.
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Hear from the pros – Join panels and keynotes with industry leaders, researchers, and HBCU alumni using data to shape the future.
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Grow your network – Connect with students, mentors, and faculty from across the HBCU community.
Whether you’re new to data or already building your skills, this experience is designed to meet you where you are—and take you further.
Opportunities to Get Involved (+ Get Paid!)
Who Should Apply? This program includes three tracks:
Instructors – $2,000 Stipend
Lead your own virtual research project! Open to current HBCU professors and assistant professors. Instructors will:
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Submit a project outline for the week and a daily teaching itinerary as part of the application
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Define a research topic and guiding question
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Identify the coding tools/platforms to be used (Python, Excel, etc.)
Research Mentors – $1,000 Stipend
Support incoming freshmen as they learn the ropes! Open to current HBCU students, staff, or faculty with some coding experience (Python, SQL, Excel, etc.) and/or student support background. Mentors will:
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Help facilitate sessions and guide student research
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Submit a resume and transcript as part of the application
Student Researchers – $250 Stipend
Get a head start on your data science journey! This opportunity is open to incoming HBCU freshmen starting in Fall 2025—regardless of major. No experience is required—just curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to learn. Student researchers will:
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Participate in their first hands-on data science project
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Collaborate with mentors and instructors on a meaningful research experience
Apply today! https://www.accelevents.com/e/PreFreshman-Experience-2025
You’ll be prompted to select your track and begin the application. Once submitted, sit tight—we’ll review your materials and be in touch soon.
This opportunity has been made possible in part by Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth.
