Elizabeth Tran is a 22 year-old senior marketing major, an ecosystem science and policy and public relations minor and she is one busy student! She is involved with multiple organizations at the University of Miami and is devoted to her platform, Teens Go Green!
Why did you decide to come to Miami?
“Initially I was planning on attending the University of Florida, but then I took a tour of the campus and fell in love with the university. I loved the small class sizes, private education and opportunities to get involved on and off campus. Later on I found out that I had received a full-ride scholarship to UM as well, so that was the perfect way to confirm I’d be attending UM!”
What has been your favorite moment in college?
“There are so many it’s hard to decide! But one that really stands out to me was coordinating UM’s Earth Week my freshman year. I never thought that I would be able to put together such a large event my freshman year. It was so much fun and I was so happy to see how many students were getting engaged in all the environmental activities. I also loved bringing a Tesla on the Rock the last day of the event!”
Looking back at freshman year, how have you changed?
“I have been told multiple times this semester ‘Who are you?’ If only I had a dollar every time someone has asked me! My freshman year, I was the girl who was terrified to drive, go anywhere on my own or go out of my comfort zone. I realized how much I limited myself from doing what I’ve always wanted to do, so I’m finally just doing whatever it is I set my mind to and I love it.”
How do you feel about going abroad next year and why did you decide to do it?
“I’m so excited to study abroad! After my experience traveling in pageants, I knew I would want to fully immerse in a new country. Right now, at this point I’m in with my life, I am more than ready to explore beyond what I imagined. Every experience is a learning experience, and it makes me look forward to what’s in store.”
What advice do you wish you could have given yourself freshman year?
“I wish I spoke to my advisors as soon as I came in to UM. I came in with no clear idea of what I wanted to do or direction. I’m happy that I’m in the place that I’m in now, but I wish I had seeked help from other people that had my best interest in mind earlier.”
How long have you been in pageants?”
“I started competing in pageants when I was about 8 or 9 years old, but I didn’t take it seriously until I was about 13.”
How did you get started?
“I was invited in the mail to compete, and the first letter I threw it away. I got another one the following year and decided to try it to please my mother. Little did I know I’d fall in love with the experience and it was the first time I felt beautiful.”
How many titles have you held and which ones?
“I’ve been really blessed to hold a different title for my community, state and country every year. I’ve been involved in several different systems like from scholarship organizations, natural pageants, modeling events, etc.”
You had the opportunity to represent the United States in two international pageants. What was that like?
“My first international pageant I represented the USA in Taiwan and my second pageant I represented Hong Kong in Australia. Both experiences were incredibly eye-opening and life-changing. When I competed in Taiwan, it opened my mind to new cultures and I grew a deeper appreciation for America. When I was in Australia, I became more independent and learned to handle myself in the most unexpected situations.”
What pageant are you preparing for next?
“This June, I will be in Greece competing for Miss Tourism Planet as Miss Hong Kong. I am SO excited, as that has been on my bucket list of places to see. I love the Greek culture and it’s always so beautiful in photos!”