Ali Nasrallah

Global Challenge: Data-driven Innovation

Abstract:

My GLASS journey has been shaped by a desire to understand how technology and data can be applied to solve real-world problems. Through my experiences, I have narrowed down my focus to the intersection between technology and finance. For my global challenge, I am exploring the vulnerability of financial markets to extreme downside risk and crisis events, relating to the UN Sustainable Development Goal of Decent Work and Economic Growth. Financial crises driven by miscalculated risk can lead to consequences that stretch far beyond markets themselves, such as unemployment, wealth destruction, and economic instability.

This challenge led me to explore how financial risk is measured and how these metrics are translated to real-world phenomena. My goal is to leverage technology to better understand financial data and strengthen economic and financial resilience. As a Consulting Analyst Intern at TransUnion, I analyzed large financial datasets to generate actionable insights for financial institutions. As a research assistant at NYU Abu Dhabi, I gained hands-on experience in operations research and supply chain optimization. Working as a teaching assistant has strengthened my communication, collaboration, and mentorship skills. These experiences, along with my studies in computer science, mathematics, and financial engineering, have shaped my ability to approach complex problems analytically and build data-driven solutions.

Bio:

Ali Nasrallah graduated from NYU Tandon in spring 2026 with a B.S. in Computer Science and a minor in Mathematics. He is pursuing a masters degree in Financial Engineering through the BS/MS program. He enjoys building systems and working with data to solve complex problems, which is what drew him to the intersection between technology and finance.

Some of the biggest highlights of Ali's time at NYU have been his travel experiences. He studied abroad at both NYU Paris and NYU Abu Dhabi during his junior year, and
volunteered in Chiang Mai, Thailand during his senior year. Each experience gave him
unique opportunities to explore new places, learn about different cultures, and meet
new people.

In summer 2025, he worked as a Consulting Analyst Intern at TransUnion, analyzing large financial datasets to generate actionable insights for financial institutions. He worked as a teaching assistant and head of inventory for the NYU Introduction to Engineering course. At NYU Abu Dhabi, he worked as a research assistant at the Center for Interacting Urban Networks, gaining skills in operations research and supply chain optimization. He also served as the treasurer of the NYU Lebanese Club, helping with event organization, outreach, and budgeting.

In his free time, Ali enjoys playing soccer and going to the gym.