Kennedy R
- Research Program Mentor
MBA at Duke University
Expertise
Business (marketing or other areas), psychology (especially in relation to social relationships or business)
Bio
Hi! My name is Kennedy, and I’m a marketer with an MBA from Duke’s Fuqua School of Business. My marketing journey began when I graduated with a degree in Cognitive Science from Queen’s University in Ontario, Canada, where I developed a strong interest in human behavior. During undergrad, I worked as a Research Assistant in the Social Cognition Lab, helping to code and conduct behavioral studies. After graduation, I spent four years as a Marketing and Operations Director at Mathnasium, a tutoring business, where I wore many hats but was most energized by the marketing work — connecting with customers, understanding their needs, and crafting campaigns that resonated. That passion for understanding people and their decision-making inspired me to pursue an MBA to deepen my management and marketing expertise. During my MBA, I interned at Reckitt on the Lysol Cleaners team, where I gained experience in the consumer goods space, focusing on market research, consumer insights, and product strategy. I’m excited to share my academic and professional experiences — and my love of marketing and behavioral science — with my students! Outside of work, I’m a reader who especially enjoys mystery and thriller novels, and I love to travel. I also enjoy staying active through fitness classes, particularly yoga and barre. Fun fact: I’m a dual citizen of Canada and the U.S., and I’ve lived in four different states and two countries so far — experiences that have shaped my curiosity and love of meeting people!Project ideas
How Social Media Trends Shape What We Buy
Social media has changed how brands connect with us. In this project, you’ll explore how platforms like TikTok and Instagram influence shopping habits. You’ll track trends, look at viral campaigns, and analyze influencer marketing. You’ll summarize your findings in a report or slide deck predicting future trends or explaining how brands can adapt.
Design a marketing campaign for a cause you care about
Have an issue you’re passionate about? In this project, you’ll create a campaign to raise awareness or inspire action. You’ll learn how marketers craft messages, choose the right audience, and design creative content. Your final product might include a campaign brief, sample ads or social posts, and a plan for sharing your message.