The Utah Tourism Analytics program offers students a unique, hands-on opportunity to work on real-world research projects that directly impact Utah’s tourism and hospitality sectors. For this project, students will conduct a feasibility analysis for a hotel development project — evaluating market demand, financial potential, and community impact to help guide real investment decisions. Students will receive periodic feedback and assistance from an advisory council comprised of subject matter experts and industry professionals. Students will travel to the development site for in-person research, fieldwork, making 2–3 overnight trips to the subject market. In addition, the group will attend the prestigious NYU Hospitality Investment Conference in New York City, held May 31–June 4, where they will gain exposure to top industry leaders and insights.

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Program benefits include:

• All expenses for program travel fully covered by the institute
• Eligibility for a $2,000 scholarship per semester (fall and spring)
• Hands-on experience in hotel market analysis, forecasting, valuation and development planning
• Valuable skill-building in data analysis, financial modeling, report writing, and consulting
• Collaboration with developers, industry partners, and local leaders
• A resume-enhancing experience with real-world impact

Participation requirements:

• Attend weekly team meetings and complete assigned tasks
• Participate in all required travel, including the NYU conference and site visits
• Commit approximately 6–10 hours per week on meetings and project work
• Complete the Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics (CHIA) through CoSTAR (covered by the institute) before receiving scholarship awards

This is a significant and selective project designed for students who want to gain deep, applied experience in the tourism, hospitality, and real estate industries.