Travis Tran, Cambridge Judge MBA Class of 2021
Age: 26
Hometown: Seattle, WA, USA
Undergraduate Institution and Major: Gonzaga University, B.S. Mechanical Engineering
Pre-MBA Work Experience (years, industry): Energy
Why business school? Why now?
I love solving problems. As time at my old job progressed, I found myself enjoying solving problems with my teams more than the technical engineering work. I knew I wanted to make the switch from technical design to strategy and management so the MBA is the perfect steppingstone. I will develop the business acumen and network to make that shift.
Why Cambridge Judge? What factors figured most prominently into your decision of where to attend?
International exposure, collaborative culture, diverse opportunities. I grew up in Seattle and was keen to gain international exposure. What better place than at one of the oldest universities in the world that brings together diverse people with ideas that can change the world?
Judge alumni consistently said that the collaborative cohort is what makes this program different. I did not fully understand what this meant until I got to meet my cohort four months before my program even started. We were in constant communication throughout the summer and even worked on projects before the program started. We share our background knowledge and help each other to succeed even if we are going for the same roles.
Cambridge also has its own ecosystem in Silicon Fen which illustrates all the interesting topics people are working on around Cambridge. The biggest challenge about being at Cambridge is learning to say no to things because there is not enough time in the day for all the opportunities they provide. The Judge Business School stresses a practical approach to learning and has you working with actual companies to make an impact every term with various types of companies.
What do you think is your most valuable or differentiating contribution to the Class of 2021?
My passion for learning. I always want to learn something new and challenge myself.
Fun fact that didn’t get included on your application?
I love to cook (especially BBQ)!
Post-MBA career interests?
I am considering management consulting and strategy & operations at a tech company.
Advice to current prospective applicants:
–One thing you would absolutely do again as part of your application process?
I would attend the university open days or the in-person interview. I fell in love with the program when I went to the open days and met the professors and the admissions team.
–One thing you would change or do differently?
Not submit my application the night before the deadline. I had trouble letting go of my application because I wanted to keep polishing it!
–Part you would have skipped if you could—and what helped you get through it?
I would have skipped that period of time where I didn’t want to apply because I assumed I would get rejected (just apply!). I am grateful for my supportive family and friends who encouraged me to go for it!
What is your initial impression of Cambridge Judge’s students/culture/community?
The culture at Judge is so welcoming, encouraging, and inspiring! Despite the current circumstances that my cohort is facing due to COVID-19, we are motivated to take advantage of new opportunities and make the most of the situation.
One thing you have learned about Cambridge Judge that has surprised you?
The business school building was originally a hospital.
Thing you are most anxious about in your first year?
I am most anxious about not having enough time to do everything I want to do! I recommend coming into the program with a clear idea of what you want to achieve.
Thing you are most excited about in your first year?
I am most excited about the hands-on experiential learning projects with both local and international companies. It is one of the main reasons I chose Judge.
