Western Michigan University student Arshpreet Singh completed a civic data analyst internship with Discover Kalamazoo during the spring 2026 semester, helping local businesses use data to inform future decisions.
Singh’s work focused on organizing and analyzing geolocation data from hotels, restaurants, bars, parks, attractions, and retail shops in the Kalamazoo area. The goal was to provide insights that could improve visitor marketing initiatives and help local establishments understand how events impact foot traffic. “I analyzed data trends and patterns to identify insights that could enhance visitor marketing initiatives,” Singh said. “I also collaborated with business owners and city leaders to interpret data, providing actionable recommendations for improving their establishments’ performance, and I analyzed data to assess the impact of events on driving foot traffic to local businesses.”
The internship was part of the Broncos Lead Internship Program at Western Michigan University (WMU), which offers paid internships along with professional development workshops. Singh said he chose this program because it offered practical experience before graduation: “I wanted more than just classroom knowledge, and this program felt like the perfect bridge between academics and the professional world. This internship helped me build a strong analytical foundation while equipping me with professional skills like communication, collaboration and leadership.” He added that his coursework in computer information systems helped him contribute immediately at Discover Kalamazoo.
One notable project involved analyzing Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week by comparing metrics between participating locations and those not involved in the event. Singh said: “While we knew it helped participating locations drive more traffic than a regular week, we still needed to prove it through data. I conducted an analysis of this event by comparing some metrics for participating locations to those that did not participate. It was really interesting to analyze real-world data that will have an impact on decisions moving forward.” He also had opportunities to present his findings directly to community partners.
Singh described his time as an intern as highly valuable for his future career: “Having this internship experience before graduating is a huge advantage on my resume and gives me an edge for future career prospects,” he said as he prepares for graduation in fall 2026.
According to the official website, Western Michigan University enrolls more than 17,000 students; fields 16 Division I varsity sports as a Mid-American Conference member; supports inclusive excellence; promotes sustainability through LEED-certified buildings; has earned top-100 national rankings for several graduate programs; and emphasizes education that is learner-focused, research-oriented, and globally involved.