Trang Linh Tran

“I definitely recommend Co-op for anyone who is entering school because you’ll have so many more opportunities and resources, especially in business.”

Linh Tran found a new home in Concordia’s Marketing program. Surrounded by creative and driven peers, she was able to jumpstart her career through three successful Co-op internships while fueling her passion for graphic design.

What's it like living in Montreal as an international student?

I love Montreal. There’s so many new things to do. I miss the community in Vietnam, but I found my own community here in Montreal. I met a lot of my friends by going to art markets, and we’re all connected by how expressive we are.

How have your Co-op internships been?

I stayed at the same company for all three work terms because I really enjoyed working there and could see that they cared about my personal development. My manager is always teaching me stuff and encourages me to ask questions. I started with the channel partner team, then the graphic design team, and now I’m in product marketing because I wanted to try out different things. I definitely recommend Co-op for anyone who is entering school because you’ll have so many more opportunities and resources, especially in business.

What’s the most memorable moment from Co-op?

Before I entered the Marketing program, I always wanted to do graphic design. I learned so much from working on the graphic design team at my company, so my supervisor encouraged me to enter their beer label competition. I got second place with my design, and it was a memorable experience because I challenged myself to a competition that I have never done in the past.

Have you used your graphic design skills at Concordia?

I was the VP Marketing of Enactus Concordia for a year. In that role, I liked designing new marketing strategies. I decided to rebrand our colours from the typical dark navy blue you see with a lot of business associations to a gradient of pink and yellow. Our goal was to inspire students to pursue their entrepreneurial projects, which was more creative than a corporate message. It was a young and dreamy image, which fit the brand.

What’s it like being involved with student associations?

I met many new people through student associations who will be my friends for life. It was inspiring to meet other driven people like me. All Concordia students are super open, kind and creative. In addition to Enactus, I modelled for the Fashion Business Association for two years. I also love the Concordia Tea Club because they bring people together around tea and great conversations come out of that.

Do you have any advice for future international students?

As an international student, it's hard not to have our families here to help, but you can rely on the International Students Office if you are struggling. It’s important to be proactive in finding your new community in a different country, whether it’s through student associations or events outside of school. The ISO runs a lot of social events, which is a great way to make new friends. The staff are really nice and passionate about what they do. International student documents stress me out, but my ISO advisor always makes me feel better.

Interested in completing paid internships during your studies? Learn more about the Co-op program!