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.