Introduction

Hi everyone! My name is Ethan Tran, and I’m a rising sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh’s College of Business Administration, where I’m pursuing a triple major in Business Information Systems, Business Analytics, and Finance. This summer, I’m incredibly excited to be heading to Tokyo, Japan, to participate in CIEE’s Summer Japanese Studies program, a dream come true that combines my love for cultural exploration with my academic goals. I grew up in Mechanicsburg, PA, with my younger sister Ava and our teacup Yorkie, Coco. Photography has always been one of my biggest passions, whether I’m capturing candid moments on campus or the vibrant energy of sporting events. In my free time, you’ll often find me watching anime, playing video games with friends, or exploring new places with my camera in hand.
At Pitt, I love being involved in campus life. I currently serve as the Business Manager for the Vietnamese Student Association and as the Director of Recruitment for the Pittsburgh Student Venture Capital Club. I’m also hoping to join a business fraternity this fall to continue expanding my leadership experience and connections within the Pitt community. My professional journey so far has given me a diverse range of experiences that have shaped how I approach challenges and opportunities. During my junior year of high school, I worked as a meat clerk at Karns Foods, which taught me the importance of organization and customer service. During my senior year, I interned at State Farm Insurance and worked as a pantry cook at Freshido, roles that strengthened my time management skills and taught me how to stay calm under pressure. At Pitt, I’ve had the privilege of working as a Teaching Assistant with Professor Cieslak for his Introduction to Information Systems class and as a photographer for The Pitt News, covering everything from campus events to major athletic games. Each of these roles has taught me the value of communication, adaptability, and working collaboratively with others.

Why Japan?

Studying abroad has always been one of my college goals, and I knew I wanted to take the leap as early as possible in my academic journey. Although I originally planned to join Pitt’s “Pitt in Japan” program, its cancellation led me to seek out other opportunities, and I’m grateful that CIEE’s program in Tokyo came highly recommended. Japan has long held a special place in my heart. I’ve always been fascinated by its culture, history, and the seamless blend of tradition and innovation that defines its cities. The chance to experience Japan firsthand while taking courses in Japanese Business and Japanese Popular Culture feels like the perfect way to immerse myself in a culture I deeply admire while earning credits toward my degree. I’m also incredibly thankful that this opportunity has been made possible through scholarships and grants, allowing me to fully embrace this experience without financial worry.

Goals

During my time in Tokyo, my primary academic goal is to successfully complete my courses, which will help me fulfill several general education requirements, including Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Social Science, and Foreign Culture credits at Pitt. Beyond academics, I’m eager to gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s history, culture, and everyday life. From exploring historical sites and bustling markets to experiencing Japan’s advanced public transit systems and local cuisine, I’m looking forward to learning not just in the classroom but through the rhythms of daily life in Tokyo. I hope to capture this journey through my photography, sharing the moments and stories that will define this summer abroad.
As I’m preparing to pack my belongings, I am so excited, I don’t think you would quite understand how long I have been waiting for this opportunity to not only fulfill one of my long time dreams of visiting this country but getting to really experience it. I’m very grateful for the opportunity that has been handed to me and all the people who helped make this a real possibility and I can’t wait to share what I learn from the weeks ahead of me.