Aria Saxena is a rising second-year Economics major at the University of Chicago (College ’28), passionate about the intersection of behavioral economics and environmental sustainability. Her published research explores how ‘green nudges’ influence consumer behavior in India’s organic food market. She has also led policy-focused work on the socioeconomic effects of single-use plastics, informed by conversations with global sustainability leaders like RePurpose Global. Aria also interned with Pathfinder International, contributing to national policy dialogues on reproductive health and behavioral change.
Aria has worked with an early-stage startup, contributing to market research, product positioning, and investor strategy. On campus, she leads editorial strategy for the Chicago Economics Forum, competes with the Chicago Debate Society, and is active in Women in Business. A trained Indian classical vocalist and Kathak dancer, she is equally committed to preserving cultural heritage through performance and storytelling. She is particularly interested in how climate, culture, and economic behavior converge in the Global South, and hopes to work at the intersection of impact-driven policy and innovation.
“The India Summer Fellows Program was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of climate vulnerability and resilience both locally and globally. In Delhi, we explored the economic impacts of climate change and met experts shaping urban policy. In Ahmedabad, grassroots visits—especially to Adopt a Bee—showed how local innovation can drive sustainability. Through lectures, fieldwork, and collaboration, I learned to view climate solutions as deeply interconnected—where data, policy, and community action must work together to drive meaningful impact.”