hi, i'm burak unlu
Freshman at Johns Hopkins University passionate about technology and innovation.
about
🎓 Education
Johns Hopkins University — B.S. Computer Science
2025–2029
Currently pursuing Computer Science with a focus on software engineering, web technologies, and AI. Active in campus initiatives, student mentorship, and technical projects beyond the classroom.
I'm passionate about creating meaningful digital solutions that make a real impact. From building SaaS platforms that save businesses money to developing tools that help students succeed, I focus on solving real problems through technology.
Beyond coding, I'm deeply committed to community service and youth empowerment. I co-founded Hill Academy, a nonprofit focused on humanitarian outreach, and regularly teach programming to underprivileged students through First Bricks Academy.
When I'm not coding or volunteering, you'll find me wrestling, playing soccer, or exploring nature through kayaking, camping, and hiking. I'm fluent in both English and Turkish, reflecting my multicultural background.
projects
Lead Wiki Developer for Charter School of Wilmington - University of Delaware iGEM team in the 2024 international synthetic biology competition. Singlehandedly built the entire Wiki site using React, Bootstrap, CSS, and JavaScript. Ensured cross-platform responsiveness and implemented GitHub version control for team collaboration.
Impact: Became central communication hub for international competition submission and scientific community engagement
SaaS product enabling small businesses to automate design workflows and product mockups. Built core platform functionality, AI-driven design generation, authentication, billing, and deployment infrastructure.
Impact: Helped early users collectively save $1,000+ in outsourcing costs
Cross-platform desktop app for fast, private, and local image compression. Built in Rust with Tauri, React, and Tailwind CSS. Features drag-and-drop interface, batch processing, multiple formats (JPEG, PNG, WebP), and customizable quality settings.
Impact: Open-source tool emphasizing privacy-first image compression with cross-platform availability
Chrome extension that removes YouTube Shorts and Games from your feed to help you stay focused while browsing. Features smart timer controls, always-on games blocking, and privacy-focused design with no data collection.
Impact: Thousands of users have adopted the extension to improve focus and reduce distracting content consumption
Browser extension to fight procrastination and track online time. Implemented Pomodoro timer, website blacklisting, time-limit controls, and detailed time tracking with clean UI/UX.
Impact: Strong user feedback with significantly improved focus during study sessions
Mobile utility app tailored for Charter School of Wilmington students. Custom GPA calculation system handling unique grading policies. Published on iOS App Store with iterative design improvements.
Impact: Maintains 5-star rating, recognized by students for academic planning
leadership & volunteering
Hill Academy
2023–PresentCore Founder
Co-founded a nonprofit dedicated to youth empowerment and humanitarian outreach.
Key Achievements:
- Organized fundraising campaign raising $15,000+ for humanitarian trip to Tanzania
- Supported well construction and orphanage remodeling efforts
- Directed multiple local campaigns blending community engagement, service, and awareness building
First Bricks Academy
2021–PresentVolunteer Instructor
Designed and taught structured courses in Java and Frontend Development for underprivileged students.
Key Achievements:
- Built modular curricula now reused by the academy for future coding classes
- Provided hands-on mentorship in problem-solving, logic, and technology
- Fostered early interest in programming among underserved youth
work experience
Co-founded a web design and digital marketing agency with a high school friend, serving local businesses in Wilmington, Delaware. Specializing in modern web design, SEO optimization, and digital marketing solutions.
Key Outcomes:
- Delivered measurable results: +140% conversions and +95% leads for entertainment client
- Generated 500+ leads in first month for productivity tool client through strategic landing page design
- Built comprehensive service offerings including web design, SEO, and social media management
- Established client base across diverse industries: e-commerce, healthcare, real estate, and restaurants
- Developed full-stack web solutions with focus on user experience and conversion optimization
Little Readers Summer School
Teacher/Mentor
Taught a group of six middle schoolers in religious studies, programming, and physical education.
Key Outcomes:
- Created diverse lesson plans nurturing academic curiosity, physical activity, and personal development
- Parents reported noticeable positive changes in their children's learning and confidence
- Developed skills in curriculum design and student engagement
Lawn Care Business
Owner
Provided local lawn care services including mowing, trimming, and weed removal.
Key Outcomes:
- Ensured clients returned to neat, professional-quality properties during their absence
- Developed strong time management and customer service skills
- Built reliable client relationships through consistent, quality work
get in touch
I'm always open to interesting conversations and collaboration opportunities. Feel free to reach out if you'd like to connect!