Kacy Tran
Howdy! Iām Chau Tran, but you can call me Kacy. Iām currently double majoring in Computer Science and Data Science, and yes, I officially declared them because I like committing to my chaos early. Iāve always been curious about finance and the world of big data, which explains why Iām drawn to becoming an AI engineer or maybe even a quant researcher someday. I enjoy working on projects where I can build models, experiment with machine learning, and turn messy data into something that actually makes sense. There is just something satisfying about solving problems with both logic and creativity
Now you might be wondering, what about retiring? Honestly, I do not really picture myself retiring quietly. I want to start my own company one day and build something meaningful from scratch. But my mom gave me some very practical advice. She told me to learn about legal matters first before doing anything big, mostly to avoid legal trouble and, as she dramatically puts it, to stay out of jail. So for now, I am dreaming big, coding hard, learning about business and maybe even law on the side, and slowly preparing myself to build something of my own in the future.
Relevant Coursework - Related to Computer Science and Data Science Major
- Introductory to Statistics (STAT 200)
- Artificial Intelligence (CS 317)
- Machine Learning (STAT/CS 323)
- Programming Language with Haskell (CS 208)
- Science Fiction and Human Identity (PREC 115)
- Differential Equations
- Neural Artifical Intelligence (CS 343 - Spring 2026)
- Software Testing (CS 395O - Spring 2026)
- Discrete Mathematics
- Linear Algebra
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Active Weeks5
Max / DayMelanoma Prediction System (2024 - 2025)
Deep learning medical classifier achieving ~93% validation accuracy. Hopefully in the future it will replace current biospy procedures. We also deployed into streamlit.io
Gaussian Splatting 3D Model (November - Present)
- Real-time 3D spatial reconstruction pipeline using Gaussian Splatting for
high-fidelity scene rendering.
- Built for volumetric representation,
dense point cloud optimization, and interactive visualization.
- Focused on efficient rendering, spatial consistency, and scalable
reconstruction for real-world environments.
Music Genre Classification (2024-2025)
- Supervised machine learning model for audio genre classification
using feature engineering (MFCCs, spectral contrast, chroma features)
and neural network architectures.
- Includes exploratory data analysis,
feature selection, model comparison, and performance evaluation
using accuracy and F1-score metrics.
Bulletproof: European Defense Strategy Case (2026)
- Co-led a five-member strategy team to develop a dual-track consolidation
recommendation for Thales, balancing industrial scale, financial discipline,
and geopolitical feasibility.
- I coordinated cross-functional analysis across
industry research, valuation modeling (DCF, comparables, and precedent
transactions), and risk assessment to ensure our recommendation was both
strategically compelling and financially defensible.
- By structuring the
presentation around clear decision frameworks-capability gaps, capital
efficiency, integration risk, and shareholder impact, I helped align our
team toward a unified thesis: pursue a Rheinmetall partnership while
executing a full merger with Leonardo. The final strategy projected
ā¬6.8B in annual synergies, improved ROIC to 15%+, and positioned the
combined entity as a top-tier European defense champion.
Kacy Tran Portfolio
Welcome to my little corner of curiosity and creativity! This portfolio is a collection of projects that show what I love doing most: exploring ideas, solving problems, and building things that actually work.
Gold Medal - 1i1w
2024Melanoma Cancer Prediction (Dataset consisted of 10000 images benign and malignant) - Team Leader
Gold Medal - ICAN
2024Music Genre Classification (GTZAN Dataset)
Dean List Fall 2025 (Knox College)
2025Dean List Fall 2025 (Knox College)
Leadership & Community Impact (High School and College)
Secretary - Vietnamese Club Knox College (September 2025-Present)
As Secretary of the Vietnamese Student Association at Knox College, I strengthened the organizationās digital and operational infrastructure by building its first fully functional website with interactive animations and structured navigation. I maintain official meeting documentation, coordinate executive communication, and support the planning of large-scale cultural events such as International Fair and Vietnamese Teachersā Day.
Galesburg Public Library Tech Tutor (October 2025 - Present)
As a Technology Tutor at the Galesburg Public Library, I work directly with community members to improve digital literacy and confidence with technology. I provide one-on-one guidance on device navigation, online services, and basic computing skills, tailoring support to individuals of varying experience levels
Team Leader - GCCH Harvard Financial Case Competition (December 2025 - February 2026)
As Team Leader for the GCCH Harvard Financial Case Competition, I led our team in analyzing and solving a complex business case within a limited time frame. I divided responsibilities based on each memberās strengths, coordinated research and financial analysis, and ensured that our final strategy was clear and well-supported.
LH DECA Chapter Director of Finance and Development (October 2023 - May 2025)
As Director of Finance and Development for my high school DECA chapter, I managed budgeting, sponsorship outreach, and financial planning for over 40 members. I developed structured fundraising strategies, prepared quarterly financial reports, and secured partnerships that generated $1,450 in revenue. My role required balancing financial oversight with long-term chapter sustainability to support competitions and organizational initiatives.
Organizing Committee - Sugar Vietnam The Route To Knowledge Season 22 (August 2022 - May 2023)
My main responsibility is to provide academic mentorship in computer science and Maths. As part of the organizing team for Sugar Vietnamās āThe Route to Knowledgeā Season 22, a ÄĘ°į»ng SĆ”ch workshop series, I helped plan and run educational events that encouraged students to explore reading and learning in a more engaging way. I supported event setup, coordinated activities, and worked closely with teammates to make sure each workshop flowed smoothly.
Student Coordinator - AIESEC Vietnam RMIT University Branch (December 2021 - February 2022)
As Technical Coordinator for AIESEC Vietnam, I oversaw technical setup and operational support for organizational events, including projector configuration, display systems, and troubleshooting device connectivity. I ensured smooth program flow by proactively resolving technical disruptions, contributing to professional, well-executed leadership and development events.