Student Spotlight: Nancy Tran
Nancy Tran is a current Master of International Business (MIB) student. She comes from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Learn more about how she overcame challenges associated with being an international student during the pandemic and how the MIB is important to her future career plans.
Tran: “I am Nancy Tran. I am originally from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. I have more than seven years of experience in FMCG Supply Chain working in Colgate-Palmolive, Coca-Cola Beverages and FrieslandCampina. I am currently earning my Master of International Business at the University of Florida, with a focus on Finance. I will be graduating in Spring 2022, and I am interested in working in FMCG or for a real estate company in a role that allows me to apply my finance analytical skills. I enjoy working with people and growing my leadership competencies. When I have spare time, I enjoy singing, traveling and trying new recipes. Please reach out if you would like to learn more!”
Q: Why did you join the MIB program?
Tran: “During my time working at international companies, I found limits in my knowledge, vision and management. It encouraged me to desire studying in a graduate program at one of most trusted schools, like the University of Florida Hough Graduate School of Business. The Master of International Business program that focuses on global economy at the University of Florida, the state’s most comprehensive university, is one of the best choices in my life.”
Q: As an international MIB student, what are the challenges you have faced?
Tran: “American education, cultures and business practices are totally new to me. I spent the first semester learning new things and adapting to the new environment. Especially online classes during the pandemic restriction caused much stress for a dominant person like me. However, the program administration team and professors gave me strongest support, and I overcame all difficulties. Now, I enjoy studying in face-to-face classes.”
Q: Any advice for international students looking forward to applying to the MIB program?
Tran: “You may identify what you really need and what will support your future career path and personal life. They normally are the connections between what you have done and what you want to become in near future. No matter which graduate program you choose, prioritize a prestigious program from a well ranked school. The MIB program at UF is a great choice! The graduate degree will also be a part of your personal brand. Therefore, think carefully before making an investment.”
Tran: “I expect to have a chance to work in the U.S. for some years and gain experience as a financial professional. Then, I will bring studying knowledge and working experience back to my home country for applying and training. I plan to open a consulting company that provides financial solutions for small and medium companies in Southeast Asia at age 40. After that, I will build a foundation to help poor children’s education and liver cancer patients.”
Q: Tell us three cool facts about you.
Tran: “(1) Awarded the scholarship of the UF Warrington’s Excellence Fund for Fall 2020 and Spring 2021 semesters. (2) Won the J.H. Memorial Scholarship, Achieved Second Place of the Student Voices, invited multiple times to give a speech at the UF English Language Institute Commencements for Summer and Fall 2018 semesters. (3) Won the Best Idea Ever Award of Coca-Cola Beverages in August 2015.”
