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As a young teen, Breeana Tran (Fin, Acct’28) battled shyness—but talking with her now, you’d never know it. An engaging, articulate conversationalist with a bright smile and maturity beyond her years, she emanates warmth and confidence. Her ease stems from a deliberate journey of self-growth, one that began with a bold decision to confront her fears head-on.

In high school, Tran joined the speech and debate team, pushing herself to speak publicly. She also discovered her voice through creative writing—a practice she began her freshman year, just as the world was grappling with the challenges of COVID-19.

Unexpected literary success

For Tran, writing fiction on difficult topics like anxiety, eating disorders and PTSD opened up healing—not just for her, but for a world of others. Her online stories have reached more than 100,000 people in 117 countries. What began at age 14 as weekly chapter releases evolved into a full-length book.

“It was a love story, of course,” Tran said. “I put all of my struggles and trauma into this character. The main character is really just a reflection of me.” The story follows two enemies who fall in love, with the protagonist learning to seek support through relationships. “People really liked this. It’s been shocking how much support I’ve received.”

Encouraged by the response, Tran began a second book. Just five chapters in, she has already attracted 25,000 readers. Though she received offers from publishers, she chose to decline them, preferring to maintain creative control and a direct connection with her audience. Writing under a pen name allows her to explore intimate topics while preserving her privacy.��

Landing at Leeds

Growing up in Colorado, Tran initially considered attending college out of state. But being admitted to the Leeds Scholars Program changed her trajectory. Her speech and debate experience sparked an interest in business, and a positive internship at a credit union ignited her passion for finance.��

“Leeds is ranked really high in the nation, and it’s in-state, so it checked all my boxes,” she said.

Tran’s college experience has already included eye-opening global opportunities. She participated in an FGX trip to Tokyo and interned for a logistics company in Vietnam. Her research supported the company’s expansion into new ports across Asia and Eurasia, deepening her interest in international business.

"Comparison truly is the thief of joy—especially among scholars, who are very smart and charismatic people.”

Breeana Tran (Fin, Acct’28)

She also interned with the U.S. Senate last semester, commuting every other day to Denver. With no prior political experience, she found the role illuminating—especially during a time of controversial executive orders. Being on the front lines in a political office meant Tran witnessed people’s struggles and concerns firsthand, understanding the harsh realities that many people face.

The experience of directly connecting with constituents and casework solidified her desire to change her career path to focus on public service consulting. How that specifically unfolds remains to be seen, but no matter what, Tran said, “It made me realize that I want to help people.”

Advocating for wellness

Tran admits her first year at Leeds wasn’t without challenges. She focused intensely on academics, often at the expense of her well-being. In her second semester, she made a conscious effort to prioritize wellness—joining a volleyball group, spending more time with friends and seeking support from Leeds advisors.��

“Physical wellness is so important,” she said. “Although I was spending half the time studying compared to my first semester, I was so much happier—and my grades were actually better.”

She developed a personal strategy for managing stress: allowing herself one hour to feel sad after a setback, then shifting her focus to improvement.

“I think it’s hard for college students to find the balance between studying and socializing,” she said. “I’ve also learned that comparison truly is the thief of joy—especially among scholars, who are very smart and charismatic people.”��

Instead of measuring herself against others, Tran strives for her personal best and prioritizes self-care. “That has driven me to take every opportunity I can and not compare myself to others.”

A bright future

Tran is determined to be a positive force this academic year, balancing self-care, fun and service. She is continuing her work with the ���������� Cultural Events Board, helping plan events that foster inclusivity and cultural awareness.

“I think a big part of me that involves helping people is elevating underrepresented groups,” she said. In high school, she gave a speech about Asian American racism, and last year, she was especially moved by an African Student Alliance event featuring powerful performances.

"A big part of me that involves helping people is elevating underrepresented groups."

Breeana Tran (Fin, Acct’28)

Now at the start of her sophomore year, Tran is actively lining up a summer internship during this recruiting season. Reflecting on her first year, she’s proud of what she’s accomplished and grateful for the support she’s received—especially from Meghan Van Portfliet, her World of Business professor.

“She’s an amazing woman. We get coffee every semester. She was there during my very tough transition into college … She was a game changer for my first semester.”

On , Tran wrote: “I’m passionate about financial literacy, cultural inclusion, and using business as a tool for positive change. Through roles in numerous organizations, I’m continuing to build both my analytical and people-first skills to become a thoughtful and impactful leader.”

And that’s exactly what she’s doing with courage, compassion and curiosity—one story, one conversation, and one opportunity at a time.