When Saloni Pasad moved from India to New York City to pursue her master's in Human-Centered Design at Pace University, she expected to attend classes, learn new skills, and maybe explore some of the city.

What she didn’t expect?
To end up working with students from across the globe on a sustainability project connected to CERN (yes—the European Organization for Nuclear Research), take a research trip to Switzerland, and meet one of the co-creators of the World Wide Web.

“I came here with an open mind, but I honestly didn’t think I’d get these kinds of opportunities,” says Saloni. “None of my friends studying at other colleges have had experiences like this.”

A Global Project with Local Impact

Saloni is part of Pace University’s NYC Design Factory, an innovation hub where students partner with international organizations and companies to solve real-world problems.

In Fall 2023, she was selected as one of just eight students to join the Challenge-Based Innovation A³ project—a global initiative supported by CERN and the European Union’s ATTRACT program, focused on developing solutions tied to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Saloni and her team focused on UN SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, which led them to explore an urgent global question:
How can we sustainably feed future city populations as urban areas continue to grow?

Their answer?
Vertical farming in cities—paired with an “Experience Center” where local communities can engage directly with sustainable agriculture through hands-on workshops, tastings, and demonstrations.

A Two-Week Journey to Switzerland

In November, Saloni traveled to Geneva, Switzerland, where she worked alongside student teams from Germany and Australia. They met with top scientists, designers, and sustainability experts—including Robert Cailliau, one of the creators of the internet, who brought the original touchscreen prototype to show the students.

“It felt surreal,” Saloni says. “We were exploring real-world challenges and learning from people who helped shape the world as we know it.”

Through brainstorming sessions, design sprints, and cultural exchange, Saloni and her team refined their solution: a vertical farming model that integrates sustainable tech with education and community connection. The idea is to make fresh produce more accessible while helping people, especially in urban environments like NYC, reconnect with where their food comes from.

Why This Matters to Her

Saloni’s motivation wasn’t just academic—it was personal.

“As an international student, I noticed how common it is here to rely on frozen or ultra-processed food. Back home, fresh food is a big part of daily life. That inspired me to think about how we could help change that.”

Now back in NYC, she and her team are building a prototype of their concept, with support from Pace faculty and a dedicated project budget. Their final presentation will take place later this year—and they’re hoping their work can inspire real change in how cities think about food, space, and sustainability.

Why Saloni Chose Pace University

Before enrolling, Saloni wanted a graduate program that blended creativity, innovation, and purpose. When she found Pace’s Human-Centered Design program at the Seidenberg School of CSIS, she knew it was the right fit.

“I love that the program focuses on solving real human problems—not just building tech, but designing experiences that improve lives.”

She also credits her professors, especially Professor Andreea Cotoranu, for encouraging students to think big, step up, and get involved in projects with global reach.

A Message to Future International Students

To other international students considering studying in the U.S., Saloni has one piece of advice:
Be open. Say yes to opportunities. You never know where they’ll take you.

“Coming to Pace has truly changed my life. It’s given me not just an education, but a platform to be part of something bigger—and to contribute in ways I never imagined.”

About Pace University’s NYC Design Factory

The NYC Design Factory is part of the Design Factory Global Network, connecting students, faculty, and industry leaders from around the world. Through hands-on, challenge-based projects, students gain real experience solving real problems—with a focus on creativity, collaboration, and innovation.

To learn more about Global Pathways, Human-Centered Design, or how you can become part of this exciting learning community, visit Pace University!