Phoebe Tran was born and raised in Vietnam. Three years ago, she came to the United States to pursue higher education. Tran earned her undergraduate degree in advertising management at the College of Communication Arts and Sciences and is currently working toward her master’s degree in marketing research and analytics. Recently, she was named one of the American Advertising Federation’s 2025 Most Promising Multicultural Students.
Tran learned about the AAF’s Most Promising Multicultural Student program through her involvement with the AAF college chapter here at MSU. Though she took the initiative to apply on her own, her faculty adviser Dave Regan played an important role in supporting her application.
“His encouragement meant a lot, especially as someone who’s seen my growth and passion for connecting strategy with cultural insight.” Tran said
Tran saw the program as a way to amplify her voice as an international student and a future advertising professional.
“I wanted to be part of a network that celebrates multicultural talent and pushes the industry toward more inclusive and thoughtful work,” Tran said.
When Tran found out she had made the AAF’s 2025 Most Promising Multicultural Student list she was pleasantly surprised. As the program is competitive, she felt rewarded and was given the confidence and validation that the work she is doing is moving in the right direction.
As part of the program, Tran and the other students who made the list were flown to New York City for a fully paid, four-day industry immersion experience. During this time, Tran received her official “Most Promising Multicultural Student” award and had the opportunity to network with top advertising agencies, recruiters, and industry leaders.
“One of the most memorable moments was seeing our faces and names featured on a digital billboard in Times Square,” Tran said. “It was such a surreal and proud experience.”
Through the program, Tran's biggest takeaway was the realization that she’s not alone, which made her feel seen and empowered.
“Being surrounded by other students of color, hearing their stories, and sharing space with professionals who champion diversity gave me clarity on the kind of culture I want to be a part of in my future workplace,” Tran said.
Through her time at MSU, internships, and the program, Tran has had the opportunity to learn from many mentors, who each played a unique role in shaping how she sees the industry and herself within it.
After Tran completes her degree, her short-term goal is to become a media analyst at an agency that values data-informed creativity and authentic cultural storytelling. In the future, she aspires to establish a strong standing in the industry and eventually help lead the development of global campaigns that reflect real cultural nuance and emotional truth.
Tran encourages others to join the program, and her advice to future students is to, “Be proud of your story and don’t be afraid to lead with it. This program isn’t just about your GPA or resume. It’s about your voice, your values, and your potential to shape the future of this industry. Show up authentically, and let your passion speak.”
By Logan Chrisinske