<p><span class="p-body">When adventurous students start the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/bs-in-hotel-and-tourism-management.html" target="_blank">BS in Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Management</a>, there's no telling where their education will take them; the possibilities are endless! This is something Jake Tran knows to be true as he completes his degree and prepares to pivot his career to media technology. We caught up with Jake to learn more about what he has gained in the program and his advice for incoming students.</span></p>

<p><span class="p-body">Raised in Huntington Beach, California, Jake has always thrived on competition and adventure. With a love for tennis, discovering new boba spots, and attending music festivals, Jake's interests paint a picture of someone eager to explore the world around him. A traveler at heart, Jake seizes every opportunity to leave the country, creating lifelong memories with friends and family. This spirit of adventure is what drew him across the country to NYU, where he started a new chapter far different from the life he knew in California.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Jake didn't have a &quot;dream school&quot; growing up, but the idea of moving out of state and starting fresh captivated him. As he researched colleges, NYU's untraditional campus and central location in New York City made it stand out. Jake was excited about pushing himself outside his comfort zone and diving into the unknown. He set his sights on NYU, knowing it would provide him with new beginnings and the chance to pave his own path.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span class="p-body">Looking back on his time as a student, Jake describes his experience at NYU as &quot;second-to-none.&quot; His involvement in the NYU community has been a significant part of his journey, helping him grow as both a student and an individual. &quot;One of my professors told me that 20% of the learning happens inside of the classroom, whereas 80% of the learning happens outside,&quot; Jake recalls. He embraced this philosophy wholeheartedly, immersing himself in roles such as serving as the President of the Asian Cultural Union and working as an Admissions Ambassador. These roles, along with participation in advisory groups, enriched his NYU experience and shaped him into a well-rounded student.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Beyond extracurriculars, Jake also found immense value in the academic programs at NYU SPS. The classes, many of which focus on real-world projects, helped him bridge the gap between education and professional application.&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">&quot;SPS has allowed me to hone in on my soft skills of effective communication, how to operate in a team environment, and how to find solutions that best fit the industry.&quot;&nbsp;</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">This hands-on learning approach not only prepared him for the professional world but also gave him the confidence to take on meaningful internships throughout his college career.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span class="p-body">Currently enrolled in a consulting practicum course, Jake experiences firsthand the power of applying classroom knowledge to real-world entities. This opportunity has given him the chance to think on a macro level and see the tangible impact of his work. He values how the program at SPS provides space for students to explore large-scale projects and teamwork, mirroring what they will encounter in their future careers. The consulting practicum has been instrumental in preparing him to step confidently into the professional sphere.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">So far, Jake's time at NYU SPS has been filled with impactful courses and meaningful mentorship. One class that stands out is Business Development I with Dr. Richie Karaburun, or &quot;Dr. K.&quot; Jake appreciated how the class bridged education and professional application, providing valuable insights from analyzing a blue ocean strategy, among others. Dr. K's engaging teaching style kept the class interesting, and the projects Jake completed continue to inform his approach to business challenges.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><span class="p-body">As he prepares for graduation, Jake already has exciting plans on the horizon. He is set to join NBCUniversal as a media technology associate, focusing on business solutions across the company. His passion for growth and innovation, plus his interest in the entertainment industry, make this role a perfect fit. Reflecting on his education, he credits the Hospitality, Travel, and Tourism program for sharpening his collaboration skills and exposing him to diverse perspectives. &quot;While my post-graduation role does not involve the hospitality industry, this sentiment of being exposed to different voices is something I find vital and want to carry on throughout my career,&quot; he shares.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">To incoming NYU SPS students, Jake offers this advice: &quot;Spend a lot of time finding the balance between school, extracurriculars, and professional experience.&quot; He emphasizes the importance of not allowing one aspect of college life to overshadow the others, advocating for a well-rounded approach that includes academics, internships, and community-building.</span></p> <p><span class="p-body">Through dedication, exploration, and balance, he has set himself up for a future filled with opportunities in the media and technology space. See where NYU SPS can take you when you pursue a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/bs-in-hotel-and-tourism-management.html" target="_blank">BS in Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Management</a>.</span></p>