Student Spotlight: Sofina Tran

Sofina Tran, President of the Undergraduate Public Health Club, is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of refugee and immigrant communities.

Name: Sofina Tran

Hometown: Buford, Georgia

Why did you choose to major in public health?
I chose to major in public health primarily because I noticed how different communities had disadvantages in attaining their healthiest embodiments, and I was interested in the diverse coursework. At Georgia State, I had the opportunity to learn about the various sectors of public health.

What has been your favorite public health class at Georgia State, and why?
My favorite public health class at Georgia State has been PH 4050, “Health Equity and Disparities.” This class was very interactive. We began our class with discussions, and everyone contributed to conversations with their thoughts, and the environment felt safe to vocalize what individuals thought. “Health Equity and Disparities” allowed me to understand more in-depth about health equities and disparities globally and nationally. Furthermore, I enjoy public speaking, and this class allowed students to present a project with a specific topic in front of the class.

Tell us about your campus involvement:
Throughout my undergraduate degree, I had the opportunity to be the treasurer for the Vietnamese Student Association for a semester and join intramurals for volleyball. I also served as a student liaison for the College Prevention Partnership under the Georgia Prevention Project, which aims to reduce substance misuse amongst adolescents and college students, for three years. I have served as the Social Media and Communications Chair for the Undergraduate Public Health Club. Currently, I am the President of the Undergraduate Public Health Club!

Where is your favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the Signature Lounge at 55 Park Place. The Signature Lounge is outlined with windows that allow me to stare over the city and witness beautiful sunsets. The Signature Lounge also has individual study rooms, comfortable chairs and computers.

What’s your career aspiration?
I want to increase the health and well-being of refugee and immigrant communities through my career. My parents are refugees from Vietnam, and I witnessed how moving to a new country is very hard on one’s well-being. I want to be able to assist refugee and immigrant families to rebuild their lives and be an advocate. Entering foreign countries and having cultural and language differences can be mentally taxing and affect one’s overall well-being.