<p>The NYU SPS <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/center-for-global-affairs.html">Center for Global Affairs</a> (CGA) and <a href="https://www.sps.nyu.edu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/division-of-programs-in-business.html">Division of Programs in Business</a> (DPB) partnered with Cornell Tech startups and Newlab to launch a peer‑assisted fellowship program that immerses students in the rapidly evolving arenas of technology, venture creation, and global problem‑solving.</p> <p>Students selected for this highly competitive experience were embedded within teams, matched with participating organizations, and tasked with completing a specific project. Participant responsibilities included research, product development, data analysis, and the practical implementation of emergent tech ideas. Students gained hands-on experience in managing ambiguity, impact analysis, independent research, and problem solving in unfamiliar technical domains.</p>

<p>With Newlab, MSGA candidate Jimena Rojo Parraga conducted a full life cycle assessment (LCA) for a smartphone developed by The Light, a company focused on minimalist, low‑distraction mobile devices. Her analysis included calculating emissions associated with raw material extraction, manufacturing, global transportation, consumer use, and end‑of‑life disposal. </p> <p>“My biggest takeaway was discovering my ability to learn and deliver in an unfamiliar technical domain under real professional conditions,” says Parraga. “I proved to myself that I can take on challenges outside my comfort zone and produce meaningful work.” </p> <p>“This experience confirmed that I am drawn to the energy and uncertainty of the startup world,” she adds. “While LCA consulting may not be my ultimate direction, working within the Newlab innovation environment showed me the kind of setting where I want to build my career, one that sits at the intersection of global challenges, entrepreneurship, and new technology.”</p>