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Business economics major applies data analysis to sustainable marketing

Atabek Rysbekov �28, a business economics and statistical & data sciences major at ������˾��, spent the summer before his sophomore year interning as a marketing analyst at Qua Bien Granite, a Kyrgyzstan-based porcelain and ceramics distribution company. During the course of the summer, Rysbekov analyzed consumer trends and enhanced Qua Bien Granite�s brand visibility, aiming to support the brand�s sustainable tile initiatives. Throughout the APEX Micro Fellowship, Rysbekov developed a deeper understanding of marketing research and data analytics, applying it to global sustainability approaches.

�This Micro Fellowship has helped me build up my communication skills and gain confidence while engaging with clients and colleagues. These experiences helped me become more comfortable in professional environments�

�Atabek Rysbekov �28

FINDING OPPORTUNITIES

I heard about APEX Fellowships and Micro Fellowships from upperclassmen friends at ������˾��. The marketing analyst internship at Qua Bien Granite seemed like a good fit for me, as I had been planning for a long time to be in a field where I could be creative while also staying on the STEM side. I believe that the best place for me is where I can balance both of my skills.

LESSONS LEARNED

The most interesting part was experimenting with and observing the company’s progress. I investigated competitors and conducted client surveys to understand what they liked and disliked. With the guidance of Adinai Kanybekova, my supervisor and the head of marketing at Qua Bien Granite, I was able to understand and apply client psychology to marketing strategies.

EXPANDED PERSPECTIVE

Throughout this summer, I acquired critical thinking skills and learned to trust my own perspective when analyzing problems from different angles. Each day at work felt special.

Most of my time was spent updating the database with the information I gathered, giving mini presentations at the end of each shift, and, of course, chatting with older colleagues as they shared their experiences and philosophy about the field of this work.

WHAT�S NEXT

This Micro Fellowship has helped me build up my communication skills and gain confidence while engaging with clients and colleagues. These experiences helped me become more comfortable in professional environments.

Featured image: Atabek Rysbekov �26 worked in Kyrgyzstan for his internship, developing his data analysis skills. Photo provided by subject.

Posted in Experiential Learning, News, Showcase Stories 2025 on August 6, 2025.