“Skateboarding around campus is my thing—it’s a perfect icebreaker,” says Emaan Asad.
“Skateboarding teaches you to face obstacles head-on, which is exactly what I plan to do at DKU.”

Emaan Asad hails from Lahore, Pakistan—a city renowned for its rich culture, vibrant energy, and unbeatable street food. Her family’s history is deeply tied to the region of Punjab, with her parents having moved to Pakistan following the India-Pakistan partition. This legacy has instilled in Emaan a profound appreciation for cultural heritage and resilience.
Emaan’s hobbies range from tennis to reading, music, and, most notably, skateboarding. For her, skateboarding is more than just a pastime—it’s a philosophy.
Her decision to study at Duke Kunshan University (DKU) was driven by its interdisciplinary liberal arts curriculum and global environment.
“I love exploring different subjects before committing—DKU gives me that freedom,” Emaan explains. While leaning toward a major in data science, she is excited by the possibility of discovering new academic passions along the way.
Emaan acknowledges that learning Chinese will be one of her biggest challenges, but she views it as an incredible opportunity for personal growth.
“I’ve always believed that the best way to learn a language is to immerse yourself in it. Being in China, surrounded by the language and culture, will be a huge advantage,” she says.
Beyond academics, Emaan plans to engage in cultural exchange programs and explore Kunshan’s local traditions, markets, and parks. She believes stepping outside her comfort zone will enrich her experience and broaden her horizons.
A defining moment in Emaan’s decision to study abroad was her desire to immerse herself in a truly international environment.
“DKU offers such a unique setting where I can interact with students from all over the world. That global perspective is essential, not just for academics but for personal growth too,” she shares.
Emaan also sees herself as a cultural bridge between Pakistan and China.
“Pakistan and China share a long-standing friendship, but experiencing it firsthand makes it more meaningful,” she says.
She hopes to represent the vibrancy of Pakistani culture while learning from the diverse perspectives of her peers at DKU. “The environment in which one grows up shapes their views and decisions. I’m excited to listen to my classmates’ stories and share my own.”
Looking ahead, Emaan envisions her time at DKU as an adventure filled with opportunities to connect with people, embrace new cultures, and grow as a person.
“I want to be the kind of person who helps build understanding and empathy between cultures. Whether it’s over a skateboard ride, a class discussion, or a shared meal, I hope to create connections that last a lifetime,” she says.