Students at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics have a diverse range of nearly 30 student-led groups on campus, offering students opportunities to connect, engage and grow in their personal and professional interests.
Elijah Sandy, Class of 2026 business analytics major, is the president of the Blue Hen Data Analytics Club. Sandy shared why he joined, what makes this group stand out and how to make an impact.
Lerner: When and why did you choose to join this student group?
Sandy: I co-founded this RSO with my friend, Sylas Chacko, after realizing there were no clubs dedicated to business analytics majors or students interested in data analytics. To fill this gap, we launched this organization in March 2024. It has exceeded both of our expectations, and we are grateful to all our analysts.
Lerner: When and where does your student group meet and approximately how many members do you have?
Sandy: Our RSO holds weekly meetings, typically on Mondays or Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Alfred Lerner Hall. We currently have approximately 75 active analysts.
Lerner: What is the mission/goal of your student group?
Sandy: Blue Hen Data Analytics Club is committed to fostering the next generation of data-driven leaders. Our mission is to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the field of data analysis and business intelligence. Our club is dedicated to nurturing a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and professional growth.
Lerner: What is your best memory or proudest moment from this student group?
Sandy: One of my best memories was when our analyst attended the Phillies Analytics Night in spring 2024. It was our first semester on campus, and we had the incredible opportunity to bring our analyst to a panel featuring professionals working in analytics for the Phillies. After the panel, we got to watch the Phillies play, for free – it was an unforgettable experience.
Lerner: What is unique about your student group?
Sandy: What sets our student group apart is our strong emphasis on project-based learning, speaker events, and networking opportunities. We provide a dynamic platform where students can engage in hands-on projects, develop critical thinking skills, and gain real-world insights through data. Our goal is to foster a community of learners who are not only proficient in data analysis but also prepared to become future leaders – translating data skills into actionable business insights.
Lerner: What are your goals for the future of your student group?
Sandy: Our goal is to help our analysts refine their data analysis skills, expand their professional networks, and develop into future leaders. We also aim to continue growing our membership and establish BHDAC as a premier data analytics club.
Lerner: How has your student group helped you grow, personally or professionally?
Sandy: The Blue Hen Data Analytics Club has played a significant role in my personal and professional growth. It has helped me improve my communication skills, navigate different personalities, and develop leadership abilities. Additionally, having BHDAC on my resume has set me apart from other candidates, contributing to me securing two internships and standing out in interviews.
Lerner: Does your group have any social media handles?
Sandy: Instagram: @ud_bhdac and Linkedin: Blue Hen Data Analytics
Lerner: Does your group have a website?
Sandy: https://bhdac.org/
Lerner: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Sandy: The Blue Hen Data Analytics Club is excited to celebrate its one-year anniversary this March!