Rachel Link

Rachel Link.

Rachel Link (uncredited)

Published February 6, 2018 This content is archived.

Each month, we'll introduce you to an interesting member of the Professional Staff Senate. This month's featured member is Rachel Link, Research Analyst with the Office of Institutional Analysis.

How long have you worked at UB?

Print

I started at UB in the Office of Institutional Analysis as a Research Analyst in January 2013. 

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Every day is different! In Institutional Analysis, I have the opportunity to work on a variety of interesting and engaging projects and interact with individuals from all parts of the university community. Providing information and analysis for decision support and the energetic environment in our office makes working here fun. 

What's the most difficult part about your job?

Too many ideas and not enough time to accomplish them all. Sometimes, a project request opens up possibilities to explore related ideas or solve other problems, and there's not always enough time to explore all of the interesting questions that arise. 

What would you say is your biggest achievement at UB?

I'm proud of the many data visualizations I've built, in particular ones utilizing UB admissions data and the National Student Clearinghouse, to perform marketing analysis for various programs, identify competitors and see where undergraduates go on to seek advanced degrees. These tools allow users to really drill down into the data and discover patterns and insights that aren't always readily apparent. I've also done a lot of work with various college rankings to predict where UB might be positioned in the future, given what we know today, as well as assessing our performance compared to peers.

Tell us something about your department that isn't well known.

While our office is the source for official data, we also do a great deal of strategic planning, predictive modeling and comparative analysis. If you need information about students or faculty, help with a survey or data analysis, we are here for you.  

If you were to share some advice for other professional staff, what would it be?

Take advantage of all UB has to offer! There are so many exciting events happening on campus, from speakers to training sessions to art exhibits. I am a big user of the libraries here and also like to attend concerts and lectures.

Do you have any hobbies? What do you do for fun?

I am a distance runner and have completed three marathons and an ultramarathon in the last two years. Running is my time to think about projects and work through problems. I also like to read, especially non-fiction, watch documentaries and spend time outdoors. 

Do you have a favorite meal you like to prepare?

I enjoy cooking Spanish food, especially paellas. 

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Hawaii has been my dream vacation spot for many years. 

Any other fun facts about you?

I made it to the final round of the Jeopardy tryouts, but didn't make it to TV. It was still a great experience!