Jenn Tran, known for her trailblazing role as the first Asian-American bachelorette on The Bachelorette, is heading back to the classroom. The 27-year-old reality TV star revealed her plans to complete her master’s degree and pursue a career as a physician’s assistant (PA). While thrilled, Tran admits feeling some apprehension as she prepares to return to school next March.
“Going back is honestly intimidating,” Tran shared in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. Her academic journey was previously put on pause when she joined season 28 of The Bachelor, followed by her starring role on The Bachelorette and her appearance on Dancing with the Stars. “I didn’t realize how much time I’d taken off,” she confessed, explaining her current process of paperwork and course registration.
Despite the excitement, Tran knows the road ahead won’t be easy. “I have a lot of refresher work to do to get back to the level I was at,” she said. Once she resumes classes, she’ll finish the final year of her coursework, which includes clinical rotations under professional supervision.
The second year of her program will immerse her in clinical settings, working alongside doctors, PAs, and nurses. “I’ve completed two rotations already, so I only have six more to go,” she noted. Tran described the experience as both exhilarating and daunting, stating, “Then I’m free, and I’m a PA. It’s scary but something I’m deeply passionate about.”
Tran intentionally paused her studies to allow her public image to settle after her high-profile breakup with Devin Strader, the contestant she chose during The Bachelorette finale. She said, “I didn’t want patients recognizing me and feeling uncomfortable.” While she acknowledges the challenge her fame might bring, she is optimistic about guiding this unique path.
Her burgeoning social media following is one bright side of her time in the spotlight. Tran looks forward to using her platform to document her return to school and share her medical journey. “I was already on TikTok sharing my PA school life, and that’s how a casting producer found me,” she explained. Her fan base, largely connected to the medical field, has expressed enthusiasm about her return to her studies.
As for her future, Tran is keeping her options open. “School will keep me busy, but I want to stay connected to this new world L.A. has introduced me to,” she said. Whether through hosting or other ventures, Tran is excited to explore opportunities while pursuing her lifelong passion for medicine.
