Blending STEM and Business Pays Dividends

As an international transfer student, Veng Leap Chan found his way to Seattle University as he was drawn to its small class sizes, financial aid and the opportunity to major in a field that blended his interests in STEM and business.

This June Chan will graduate with a dual degree in Business Analytics and Computer Science. During his time at SU, he has quickly distinguished himself for his leadership, intellectual curiosity and campus and community involvement—all of which earned him the 2024 Provost’s Award.

“Being recognized for the Provost Award means that my hard work during the past three years has been recognized," says Chan. "It means a lot to me and this award has made me feel seen.”

For his senior capstone, Chan worked on a real-world project—through the Projects Center—with Amazon, assisting in the development of an app related to Alexa. This experience, combined with his involvement in the Redhawk Fund and Beta Alpha Psi—the international honor organization for financial information students and professionals—highlighted his business acumen. Of his time as chair and later vice president of programming for Beta Alpha Psi, Chan says, “It was exciting to be able to get business leaders in Seattle to come speak with us,” emphasizing the valuable networking opportunities afforded to members.

Chan’s leadership extended beyond academic organizations to roles in the Student Government of Seattle University and the International Student Association. His commitment to gaining practical experience led him to work at Starbucks last summer as a systems analyst in the transportation technology division. This summer, just weeks after graduation, he will return to Starbucks as a full-time app developer. Reflecting on his career aspirations, Chan shares, “I wanted to be a leader and in a job that is outward-looking.”

As he prepares to graduate, Chan leaves Seattle University equipped with technical expertise and a strong network, poised for future success. His advice to incoming students: go for it. “Take every opportunity you have or that comes your way,” he says. “If you don’t give it a shot, you’ll never know. If you apply yourself, you won’t have any regrets.”

Veng Leap Chan’s journey at Seattle University is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities and striving for excellence.

Watch this video for more from Chan:

Veng Leap Chan’s Faves

Favorite spot on campus: The Amazon Computer Science Project Center 
“It’s a place to build friendships in my capstone and you can come here and hang out.” 

Favorite place to grab a bite near campus: Menya Musashi Tsukemen & Ramen on Capitol Hill

Favorite thing(s) to do in the city: “I started playing table tennis, also volleyball. And going to the International District to eat or (exploring) downtown.”

Favorite author or book: Dystopian genre and books like the The Hunger Games

Favorite TV show you last binged: Superstore 

Favorite hobby or what you do for fun: Staying home and playing mobile video games or going boulder climbing at an indoor bouldering gym

This year's undergraduate and graduate commencement ceremonies are Sunday, June 9, at Climate Pledge Arena.