Arianna B
- Research Program Mentor
PhD candidate at University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
Expertise
Organizational behavior, Applied Economics, Behavioral Science, Psychology, Nutrition, Data Analyses, Statistics, Researc Science
Bio
I am passionate about understanding how people and organizations thrive, a theme that has shaped both my academic and professional journey. With a PhD in Organizational Behavior and Applied Economics from Wharton, I’ve spent years researching how data and behavioral science can improve culture, equity, and performance in workplaces. My work spans academia, consulting, and startups, all tied together by a focus on turning rigorous analysis into strategies that unlock human potential. Outside of work, I love immersing myself in nature and travel, often seeking out hiking trails or biking routes wherever I go. I also enjoy writing, whether through my Substack, where I share reflections on technology and the future of work, or in more personal pieces about resilience and economic mobility. Community is central to my story, and I find joy in activities that bring people together and create opportunities for growth.Project ideas
Beginner-to-Medium: The Impact of Remote Work on Daily Wellbeing and Productivity
In recent years, remote and hybrid work arrangements have reshaped how people organize their daily routines. This project would examine how different work setups: remote, hybrid, and in-person influence employees’ wellbeing and productivity. A student could design a short survey to capture key indicators such as mood, stress levels, sleep quality, and self-reported productivity, then compare results across work arrangements. To deepen the analysis, the survey could be complemented with a small number of short interviews, offering qualitative insights into the lived experience of workers. The project is intentionally manageable: data collection can be completed within a few weeks, while still giving the student the opportunity to practice essential research skills such as survey design, descriptive data analysis, and translating findings into meaningful conclusions about workplace trends.
Community Belonging and Student Success
A strong sense of belonging is linked to academic achievement and personal wellbeing, yet students’ experiences of community can vary widely. This project would explore how involvement in student organizations, study groups, or informal peer networks shapes feelings of belonging on campus. A student researcher could conduct a small set of interviews or focus groups with peers, asking about where they feel most supported, what challenges they face in finding community, and how belonging connects to their motivation or performance. The project is intentionally focused in scope: it can be completed with 5–10 participants and analyzed through simple coding of themes. This allows the student to develop skills in qualitative interviewing, thematic analysis, and connecting personal stories to broader educational outcomes.