Meet Our New Intern! Anushka Karki

October 08, 2025

CPE is excited to welcome our newest intern Anushka Karki! Anushka is currently attending Northern Kentucky University, pursuing a major in computer science, with a minor in mathematics. At CPE, she’ll be serving as an intern in our Data and Advanced Analytics Unit. Her work will focus on conducting research and contributing to agency reports, presentations and publications.

We sat down with Anushka to talk about her role:

What drew you to CPE?

I was interested in CPE because it gives me a chance to apply what I’m learning in school to real problems in higher education. I liked that the work here connects data to decisions that affect students and the state, and it felt like an opportunity to see how data can actually shape policies and outcomes. It’s a way to bridge what I study with real-world impact, which makes the experience more meaningful.

Why do you think the work our data unit team does matters? Why should people listen? 

I think the work the data unit does matters because it shows what’s really happening in higher education. It cuts through misinformation and gives leaders a clear picture of what’s working and what needs attention. People should listen because these insights help guide decisions that directly affect students, colleges, and the state as a whole. 

Why does higher education matter to you?

Higher education matters to me because I experience its impact every day as a student. I’ve seen how it challenges me, opens new doors, and shapes the way I think about my future. Being in it makes me realize just how important it is for creating opportunities and giving people the tools to reach their goals. 

What skills/insights do you hope to gain out of this experience?

I want to get a better sense of the importance and impact of data analysis in a professional setting. I’m hoping to learn how to approach those challenges, ask the right questions, and see how data can actually influence decisions. I also want to learn from the people around me, how they think through problems, explain findings, and work as a team.

Ultimately, what difference do you hope your contributions will make for higher education in Kentucky?

If one of my projects can guide decisions that improve access, resources, or outcomes for students, then I’ll feel like I’ve contributed to something meaningful for higher education in Kentucky. In the end, I want my efforts to support the bigger picture of making college a better experience for students across the state.

Fun fact about Anushka: She has a cat named Nova.

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CPE's Data and Advanced Analytics Unit plays a critical role in driving the agency’s strategic agenda by providing meaningful insights on higher education issues to the Governor’s Office and state legislature. It is also nationally recognized for its innovative research and longitudinal data system.

To learn more about CPE’S data center, click here: https://cpe.ky.gov/data/index.html