Computing Grad Pursues Parallel Paths in Computer Science and Film

For Kathy Tran, choosing to major in computer science (CS) at Georgia Tech was never about narrowing her interests. Drawn to both computing and film, she sought flexibility to explore technical problem-solving alongside creative storytelling. 

Through her work as a teaching assistant (TA), a software engineering internship, and independent film projects, Tran learned that her interests didn’t have to fit neatly into a single role. Instead, she built a path that lets both sides grow, sometimes together, sometimes separately. 

What drew you to computer science and Georgia Tech? 

I’ve always been the type of person who wants to do a million things, so it was difficult for me to decide on one subject to study in college. I was drawn to CS because it is extremely versatile, and I enjoyed Advanced Placement Computer Science A (AP CSA) at Woodland High School in Stockbridge. I could go the practical route and work at a big tech company, or I could take a more creative route and pursue game development or animation. Since computers are ubiquitous in all industries, the possibilities seem endless. 

However, another subject I really wanted to study in college is film, as it is my first love. I had to find a school that would give me a balance between an amazing CS education and a film education. I ended up choosing Georgia Tech because not only do we have a top-ranked CS program, but we’re also in the heart of Atlanta, where there are countless film opportunities. This semester, I’ll be graduating with a bachelor’s in computer science with a minor in film and media studies. 

How has your experience as a teaching assistant shaped you? 

I have been a TA for CS 1332: Data Structures and Algorithms for seven semesters. At first, I just wanted to have an on-campus job and retain fundamental information about CS. However, over the semesters, I ended up really loving the TA community. 

Being surrounded by a highly motivated group of people forces you to try to be the best version of yourself. I’ve met people who achieve great things. Seeing them achieve their goals makes it seem like mine aren’t out of reach and only makes me work harder to achieve them.

How have you approached your interests in tech and media? 

When I first entered college, I assumed that I needed to perfectly combine the two fields, which led me to restrict myself to the role of a tech artist. I worked as a tech artist for clubs like VGDev and Animation Club, creating 3D models and rigs that can be animated. I also did a VIP in Art and AI, where I created a stop-motion film using 3D models and generative AI. 

However, I feel like I thrived when I allowed myself to explore these fields separately. On the technical side, I worked as a software engineering intern at AWS and enjoyed applying my technical design knowledge and problem-solving skills to complete my project. On the media side, I have directed two short films, with In Universe 907 winning an award at Georgia Tech’s Literature, Media, and Communications (LMC) Film Festival. 

While these two paths don’t perfectly combine tech and media 50/50, they require both technical and creative skills that satisfy my need to combine my passions. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

After graduation, I’ll be working as a software engineer at Amazon Web Services and will be moving to Santa Clara, California. 

Who has influenced your journey at Georgia Tech? 

I have to thank Mary Hudachek-Buswell and Frederic Faulkner for allowing me to serve as their TA for the past three years and for giving me and the other TAs many opportunities to grow both academically and professionally. 

What advice would you give to students interested in combining technical and creative fields? 

To any student interested in combining technical and creative fields, keep your options open and don’t pigeonhole yourself into one role or industry. Innovations in both fields are constantly being created, and new roles can emerge in the blink of an eye. 

Allow yourself to explore all forms of technical and creative fields, and your calling will come about naturally.