Kyle Zheng
Summary
Dynamic and culturally aware individual with experience. Proven skills in effective communication and problem-solving, complemented by a strong attention to detail and teamwork, showcased through community outreach initiatives and an immersive language program.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Global Ambassador
CIEE
08.2025 - Current
- Selected to represent CIEE and connect with students to promote study abroad opportunities through events, outreach, and peer advising.
- Shared personal international experience to inspire others and support recruitment efforts for global education programs.
Teen Volunteer
Field Museum of Natural History
06.2024 - Current
- Maintained in conversations regarding natural science, evolution, and global environmental changes
- Supported early childhood learning through interactive play and hands-on activities in the museum's Crown Family PlayLab
- Collaborated with museum staff and fellow volunteers to support family-friendly programming and special events
- Engaged young visitors and families in educational play using themed carts featuring real fur pelts, replica fossils, and natural history specimens
- Showcased and explained various materials and substances (e.g., animal fur, bones, plant samples) to spark curiosity and discussion
- Kept a clean, welcoming, and safe space while supporting museum staff
Youth Intern
Palenque LSNA
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Served as a Youth Intern with Palenque, engaging in group discussions on neighborhood and city issues in Logan Square and Chicago, including gentrification, racial injustice, and economic inequality.
- Met with local leaders, including the ward's Alderman, to better understand policy impacts on community members.
- Assisted in organizing a protest opposing city council legislation and advocating for the Northwest Housing Ordinance to promote affordable housing and protect residents.
- Strengthened skills in civic engagement, grassroots organizing, and public advocacy through direct involvement in community action.
Global Navigator Participant
CIEE
06.2024 - 07.2025
- Selected as a Global Navigator Scholar and awarded a merit-based scholarship to attend CIEE's Global Entrepreneurship program in Singapore.
- Explored startup culture and international business strategy in one of Asia's leading innovation and finance hubs.
- Collaborated with national peers to research market needs and develop business solutions, culminating in professional presentations.
- Engaged with local businesses and entrepreneurs to gain insight into real-world operations, marketing, and product development.
- Strengthened cross-cultural communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills through immersive, hands-on experiences.
- Presented a business project, Getaway, a fictitious AI-powered platform that generated personalized travel itineraries from user survey responses, to a panel of judges and won 2nd place.
Étoile Scholar
Alliance Française De Chicago
01.2024 - 06.2025
- Personally nominated by my French teacher to join this selective program, recognizing high-achieving and passionate French language students across the Chicago area.
- Participated in immersive French language and cultural sessions led by native French speakers to deepen understanding of Francophone cultures, history, and global perspectives.
- Engaged in regular French conversations and collaborative activities with other dedicated high school students who share a passion for the language.
- Explored current events, social issues, and cultural traditions across the Francophone world through discussion and media.
- Developed language fluency and intercultural communication skills in a dynamic, community-oriented environment.
Volunteer
Office of State Representative Theresa Mah
07.2023 - 07.2023
- Participated in a community food drive supporting low-income families at a local elementary school.
- Helped distribute free school supplies to students and families at a neighborhood community center.
- Supported outreach efforts aimed at promoting educational equity and food security within underserved communities.
- Contributed to a welcoming and inclusive environment during community engagement initiatives.
Education
High School Diploma -
Lane Tech College Prep High School
Chicago, IL06-2026
Skills
- Flexibility
- Attention to detail
- Effective communication
- Cultural awareness
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
Accomplishments
- Recipient of the President's Volunteer Service Award in recognition of 121 volunteer hours supporting museum operations, guest engagement, and educational programming.
- Received the “Award Toward Excellence” from the Alliance Française in recognition of achievement in French studies.
- AP Scholar with Distinction Award (average AP score: 4.8)
- First-Generation Recognition Award from the College Board.
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Chinese (Cantonese)
Limited Working
French
Limited Working
Interests
- Entrepreneurship
- History
- International Relations
- Lego Building
- Politics
- Numismatics
- Travel
- Fishing
- Volunteer Work
Timeline
Global Ambassador
CIEE
08.2025 - Current
Youth Intern
Palenque LSNA
06.2025 - 08.2025
Teen Volunteer
Field Museum of Natural History
06.2024 - Current
Global Navigator Participant
CIEE
06.2024 - 07.2025
Étoile Scholar
Alliance Française De Chicago
01.2024 - 06.2025
Volunteer
Office of State Representative Theresa Mah
07.2023 - 07.2023
High School Diploma -
Lane Tech College Prep High School