Ask HN: In Trouble for using company database structure for a graduate project?

Eventually, I would like to pitch it to the senior developers who can then pitch it to my manager. Don't worry I will use sample data.<p>You might say to ask my manager but he/she doesn't support my graduate degree. Said "it will not benefit the department". Dead end there. However, I do believe this project WILL add tremendous value. Let me know what you guys think.