Overview

The Student Assessment Challenge is an opportunity for all UNT students, undergraduate and graduate, to dig into real, de-identified institutional data and uncover meaningful insights for a chance at a cash prize. Participants analyze survey datasets provided by the Division of Student Affairs, work with faculty and staff advisors, and receive FERPA training to prepare them for responsible data use.

This experience is designed to help students sharpen their research and data analysis skills, while also offering a platform to share findings that matter for student success at UNT.

Why Participate?

  • Hands-on experience: Work with real institutional data in a safe, de-identified format.
  • Faculty and staff support: Receive mentoring, training, and guidance along the way.
  • Professional exposure: Present your findings at the UNT Student Portraits Data Symposium.
  • Networking opportunities: Connect with peers, advisors, and professionals across campus.

Last year’s inaugural challenge was a success, with participating students later presenting their work at the Student Portraits Data Symposium. Their contributions highlighted new perspectives on the student experience and demonstrated the value of student-led research at UNT.

How It Works

  1. Sign up: Students interested in participating should complete the online interest form.
  2. Prepare: Participants will receive training and resources, including FERPA certification.
  3. Analyze: Using the provided de-identified dataset, students explore trends, insights, and connections.
  4. Present: Selected students and teams present their findings at the UNT Student Portraits Data Symposium

Timeline

Dates and specific details for this year’s challenge are still being finalized. Check back on this webpage for updates. Students who complete the interest form will be added to a contact list and notified as soon as new information is available.

Get Involved

If you are curious, motivated, and interested in data analysis, research, or improving the student experience at UNT, we encourage you to apply. This is a great opportunity to develop new skills, strengthen your resume, and contribute to meaningful conversations about student success.

Questions?

For questions about the Student Assessment Challenge, please contact the Division of Student Affairs Assessment team at Sheila.Bustillos@unt.edu, Samuel.Williamson@unt.edu, or Shafayat.Islam@unt.edu