#PittsburghMe: Meet Kelly Tran, Cinema Production Major

Meet Kelly Tran

Major/Program: Cinema Production
Graduation: April 2020
Scholarships: Dean's Academic Scholarship and COPA artistic scholarship
Hometown: North Huntingdon, Pa.
High School: Norwin High School
Dream Job: Writer/Director

"I have traveled to Los Angeles and had two of my films screened. I've also had opportunities to interact with and get advice from working professionals on my films, including Bob Ducsay (editor of Stars Wars: The Last Jedi). Additionally, I’ve networked with and learned from my talented peers, who have become some of my best friends."

Kelly Tran

Why did you choose Point Park University?

It was local and one of the strongest film schools in the state!

How did you become a published writer before graduating high school?

I was a part of speech and debate in high school when I discovered the Interp Store writing contest. I had written a short story about my grandma, edited it and didn't think much of it. I got an email one day that my story was selected to be published in an anthology for other students in speech and debate to buy/use when they compete! It was surreal to think someone across the country could be performing words I wrote!

What opportunities have you had through your major?

I have traveled to Los Angeles and had two of my films screened. I've also had opportunities to interact with and get advice from working professionals on my films, including Bob Ducsay (editor of Stars Wars: The Last Jedi). Additionally, I’ve networked with and learned from my talented peers, who have become some of my best friends.

**Your film You Will Love Again was nominated in the All American High School Film Festival. Tell us about that.**

I went to New York with three other Point Park students in the middle of my freshman year. It was a super crazy, fun experience, and a great way to meet other young filmmakers! Being in New York, there were hundreds and hundreds of people, so it was a complete honor to be recognized for a film that I didn't expect would be! At the Teen Indie Awards You Will Love Again was nominated for Best Experimental Film.

You are a new Pioneer Ambassador. What impact do you hope to make on incoming/transfer students?

My role as a Pioneer Ambassador is to be a warm face and a good friend to students coming to Point Park for the first time. I hope to be a good role model and someone they can come up to if they ever need help or feel alone.

What do you enjoy most about your internship at the Arcade Comedy Theater?

I've been locked into a pattern of making sad girl drama films, but one of my loves is actually comedy! My internship at the Arcade Comedy Theater allows me to take my class for free, while also meeting people from the comedy community and sitting in on as many shows as possible while I work!

What advice do you have for incoming students?

Be nice! It is so easy to be nice. And remember to be nice to yourself, too!

#PittsburghMe: Meet Kelly Tran, Cinema Production Major Student Profile