Student Profiles
Chi Tran
Hometown: Hanoi, Vietnam
Anticipated graduation year: 2025
Degree: BS in business: business analytics track
Why did you choose the University of Rochester?
I first learned about the University of Rochester through Vietnamese alumni who spoke highly of its open curriculum, tight-knit community, and beautiful campus. Later, I discovered our motto, Meliora, which deeply resonated with me. It reflects my own commitment to continuous self-improvement and lifelong learning - regardless of time or place.
Why did you choose to major in business?
I chose to major in Business because I’ve always been curious about how successful organizations strike a balance between pursuing growth and nurturing long-term customer relationships. Even before coming to Rochester, I had a strong interest in psychology and emerging technology - especially in the business context. I was fascinated by how companies are conceptualized, how they position themselves in competitive markets, and how they uphold their core values internally and externally across stakeholders.
What has been your favorite undergraduate business course and why?
If I really had to choose (since there are so many great ones!), it would be MKT 233: Advertising and Promotional Strategy. This course dives into market research, survey design, and branding strategy through engaging discussions and a creative final project. I genuinely had so much fun in this class—and I always recommend it to both Business and non-Business students!
What are your activities outside of class?
I have been working as a Resident Assistant (RA) at O'Brien Hall for 2 years, and I have been involved in the Medallion Leadership Society, Vietnamese Student Association, and Rewriting the Code. These positions have given me a great opportunity to connect with peers, learn something new every day, and, most importantly, make a meaningful impact on the community.
Have you completed any internships?
Yes, I’ve completed three internships so far. In Spring 2023, I worked at Storage Scholars LLC as an Entrepreneurial Operations & Marketing Intern, where I partnered with the CEO and COO to launch and manage their Rochester branch while promoting the service to the UR community. In Summer 2023, I interned at Nasdaq as a Digital Marketing Intern, where I implemented SEO strategies, conducted competitor analysis, and produced data visualizations to evaluate campaign performance - contributing to the company’s first SEO guidebook. Most recently, in Summer 2024, I joined a startup named PILOT Inc. as a Go-to-Market Intern, where I supported the development of their first AI assistant by conducting market research, designing sales strategies, and managing CRM data. These experiences have been incredibly formative in shaping my career goals and preparing me for what’s next.
What are your career goals?
I aspire to become a tech- and data-driven Go-to-Market Specialist (Sales, Marketing & Customer Success), Business Analyst, User Researcher, or Product Manager in the tech and/or finance industry. I would love to indulge in a role where I can apply emerging technologies and leverage data analytics to shape product strategy and better understand users and customers.
What is your favorite spot on campus? Goergen Athletic Center
Favorite Rochester restaurant: Nam Vang
What is one piece of advice you would give your past self the summer before starting at UR?
Don't focus too much on the destination, enjoy the road, and you will reach it a lot faster and, most likely, more happily.