Kiran Rao
Durham,NC
Summary
Innovative undergraduate researcher at Duke Kunshan University, with expertise in environmental research and literature review. Proven leader as President of the DKU Student Associations, enhancing institutional reputation through strategic initiatives. Skilled in leveraging cultural awareness to plan events and do community outreach, fostering engagement and collaboration in diverse settings.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
President, DKU Gender and Sexual Minorities Club
Duke Kunshan University
Kunshan, China
12.2024 - Current
- Led executive board to define and implement strategic vision for programs and initiatives, fostering organizational growth.
- Implemented strategic initiatives that strengthened institutional reputation among stakeholders.
- Managed budgeting and marketing, including poster design & communications.
Undergraduate Student Researcher
Duke Kunshan University
Kunshan, China
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Acquired skills in environmental research methods, data analysis, and academic communication to support research outcomes.
- Performed 80 hours of research on history and efficacy of compensatory environmental logic, contributing to understanding of environmental policies.
- Worked with professor to develop materials for poster presentation, enhancing clarity and effectiveness of research findings.
Event Director, South Asian Organization
Duke Kunshan University
Kunshan, China
01.2024 - 05.2025
- Executed large-scale cultural events, enhancing community engagement and cultural awareness.
- Coordinated logistics for venues, vendors, schedules, materials, and performers, ensuring seamless event execution.
Sports Complex Associate
Duke Kunshan University
Kunshan, China
09.2023 - 09.2024
- Managed reception and administrative duties at DKU Sports Complex, fostering efficient operations and enhancing member satisfaction.
- Recognized as Sports Complex Associate of the Month for exceptional service and commitment to member experience in September 2023.
Educational & Community Initiatives
Highschool
Lahore, Pakistan
08.2019 - 06.2022
- Initiated literacy enhancement program, utilizing alternative pedagogies to boost student engagement.
- Taught at local schools through educational NGOs for four summers, supporting literacy and classroom learning.
- Founded a book and poetry club for queer youth, creating safe public spaces for literary expression and community building.
- Launched linguistic preservation project in Ghizer, Pakistan, documenting endangered Wakhi language through interviews and ethnographic research to promote cultural awareness.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science
Duke Kunshan University
Kunshan, China06.2027
A' Level Diploma - Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, History and Urdu
International School Lahore
Lahore, Pakistan07.2023
Skills
- Research design
- Scientific & humanities research
- Literature review
- Laboratory techniques
- Academic & scientific communication
- Survey design
- Leadership & team management
- Collaboration
- Event planning & organizational strategy
- Budgeting & resource allocation
- Community outreach
Accomplishments
Dean’s List with Distinction, Fall 2025, Duke Kunshan University
Languages
English
Native/ Bilingual
Urdu
Native/ Bilingual
Mandarin
Limited
Timeline
Undergraduate Student Researcher
Duke Kunshan University
06.2025 - 08.2025
President, DKU Gender and Sexual Minorities Club
Duke Kunshan University
12.2024 - Current
Event Director, South Asian Organization
Duke Kunshan University
01.2024 - 05.2025
Sports Complex Associate
Duke Kunshan University
09.2023 - 09.2024
Educational & Community Initiatives
Highschool
08.2019 - 06.2022
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science
Duke Kunshan University
A' Level Diploma - Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, History and Urdu
International School Lahore