At 25, Amal Badri has three university degrees — two from NYU Abu Dhabi and one from Penn State — and a full-time job with one of the world’s top business strategy firms. “A lot of doors have opened for me,” she says modestly. “I can’t ask for better than that.”
In her first year as a consultant at Monitor Deloitte in Dubai, Badri is at a “great advantage” being able to manage intense workloads, long hours, grasp new concepts, and take her fair share of critiques.
Studies: Master of Economics, Class of 2022; Master of Mechanical Engineering, Penn State University 2021; Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering, Class of 2019
Home Country: UAE
Current: Consultant, Monitor Deloitte
“Coming from NYUAD I've already been exposed to that,” she says. “During my master’s we had to work over 80 hours a week, so I’m used to the workload. The professors don’t hold back when it comes to constructive feedback!” she laughs.
I went (into the program) with zero economics background and by the end I was presenting a policy framework to the UAE’s Minister of Economy. It shows how much you can grow in just eight months.
In-depth knowledge of engineering and economics, plus research and internships, are proving to be extraordinary career assets for Badri. Job offers have been plentiful, she says, because “engineers are always sought after and the advantage of economics really gives you an edge.”
Badri’s ultimate goal is to help shape national policies and strategies for engineering, rather than focus on technology itself, which is why she chose to return to NYUAD to study economics. Conquering the master’s program, known for its fast pace and rigor, is now among her greatest early-career achievements.
“I went (into the program) with zero economics background and by the end I was presenting a policy framework to the UAE’s Minister of Economy. It shows how much you can grow in just eight months.”
“There’s no place like NYU Abu Dhabi,” she says. “You gain an advantage that is with you for life.”