Houston's Asian American Journeys: John Tran
Produced in partnership with the University of St. Thomas MAX Studios and Yetter Coleman LLP
As a native Houstonian, John Tran has come to appreciate the comfort of the region's large Vietnamese community — as well as the diversity that lies beyond, demonstrating that in Houston, differences are celebrated. No matter our background, the desire to improve ourselves and to succeed carries everyone forward and connects us. Watch his videos for insight into the Vietnamese community, what has driven him to pursue medicine, and for a reminder to appreciate the sacrifices our loved ones have made for us.
On Growing Up in Houston
On His Family's Journey
On His Inspiration to Study Medicine
About John Tran
John Tran is a University of St. Thomas alumni who holds a degree in psychology with a minor in neuroscience. His impact was large at UST where he served within the Club Sports Association, Mendenhall Summer Institute, UST Orientation Leaders, Campus Ministry, UST Presidential Ambassadors, HOSA, Latino Medical Student Association, Psi Chi, Campus Activities Board interns, and the Filipino Student Association. Furthermore, Tran was selected as Mr. UST for 2022 and will represent the university alongside Reeja Awan at various events, be special guests at alumni events, and act as spokespersons and sit on committees when needed.
Currently, Tran is attending medical school at the McGovern Medical School in Houston with help from the Joint Admission Medical Program (JAMP). Inspired by his grandmother’s and family’s struggles with Alzheimers and Dementia, he is humbled by the opportunity to get experience in healthcare and diversity in treatment so that he can better serve the community that has served him his whole life.
About Houston's Asian American Journeys
In partnership with the University of St. Thomas MAX Studios, Asia Society Texas presents a new video series, Houston's Asian American Journeys. Through short video interviews with local Asian Americans, the series illuminates the voices that make up a vital part of the most diverse city in the U.S.
Featuring Houstonians who reflect the richness and diversity of the local Asian American communities, the series highlights a variety of experiences, cultures, religions, and ethnicities and explores themes of identity, memory, and shared humanity. In sharing these personal journeys, Asia Society Texas and the University of St. Thomas seek to build empathy and connectivity between people, as well as deepen our collective understanding of Asian American experiences in Houston.
About the University of St. Thomas
The University of St. Thomas is a comprehensive university, grounded in the liberal arts. Committed to the unity of all knowledge, we offer programs in the traditional liberal arts, professional, and skill-based disciplines. Graduates of the University of St. Thomas think critically, communicate effectively, succeed professionally and lead ethically.
By pursuing excellence in teaching, scholarship and service, we embody and instill in our students the core values of our founders, the Basilian Fathers: goodness, discipline and knowledge. We foster engagement in a diverse, collaborative community, and our student body reflects the rich diversity of the city itself. We welcome undergraduate and graduate students of all faiths and of no faith.
About UST Max Studios
In his lifetime, St. Maximilian Kolbe founded and ran a radio station and several publications. It is in this tradition that University of St. Thomas – Houston steps into the realm of digital content creation through MAX Studios. Inspired by St. Maximilian’s passion and emboldened by St. John Paul II’s words in his encyclical “Redemptoris Missio,” MAX Studios’ goal is to provide fresh monthly content and conversation. MAX Studios aims to encounter the surrounding culture while highlighting the diversity of the Catholic Faith Tradition.
About Asia Society Texas
Asia Society Texas believes in the strength and beauty of diverse perspectives and people. As an educational institution, we advance cultural exchange by celebrating the vibrant diversity of Asia, inspiring empathy, and fostering a better understanding of our interconnected world. Spanning the fields of arts, business, culture, education, and policy, our programming is rooted in the educational and cultural development of our community — trusting in the power of art, dialogue, and ideas to combat bias and build a more inclusive society.
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