Catchin’ Up With a Regional Chapter Leader: Ravanna Cantrall

Ravanna Cantrall

2016 Undergraduate Transfer Scholar, Columbia University

Can you start by introducing yourself?

Hi, Cookie cousins! If we have yet to meet, my name is Ravanna Cantrall – I often go by Rae. I was a 2016 Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholar where I transferred from Long Beach City College to Columbia University in the City of New York. I studied Human Rights and Computer Science and transitioned into Consulting and Strategy work post-undergrad. I have worked for Deloitte as a strategy consultant in the Mergers and Acquisition space and I currently work in agile consulting at a boutique firm. I love learning new things and spending most of my time with my partner and animals in South Pasadena.

This year, I took on the role of Alumni Regional Chapter Leader for Los Angeles and the greater Southern California region. I look forward to hosting many events and getting to know my fellow Scholars better!

What does being a Cooke Scholar mean to you?

Being a Cooke Scholar means many things to me – it is a space where I have found some of my closest friends & being a Scholar has granted me access to an education and life that I did not dream possible. It is such a special community where anyone I meet I have an automatic connection with. It is such a warm and special space that is one of the biggest highlights of my collegiate experience.

Tell us about a memorable moment in undergrad or graduate school.

While in undergrad, I was lucky enough to study abroad in Paris with the support of the Foundation. Although time in a new country was rough at times, I saw beautiful sights and made lasting memories that will always stick with me -  even visiting Monet’s gardens and lily pads! I highly recommend the experience of studying abroad.

What is ONE THING YOU DID TO HELP TRANSITION TO YOUR FIRST YEAR OUT OF COLLEGE?

My first year out of college was following the start of the pandemic, so it was really important for me to stay connected to friends and family - even virtually. Building a strong network of people that have been where I was and understood my journey as a first-gen student transitioning to the professional realm was instrumental. Centering mental health has to be key in the journey and I want to highlight that the Cooke community has always been part of my support. I encourage anyone who may need some insight or support to reach out to myself or the larger community!

What is your favorite part about staying connected to the Cooke community?

I have met so may different people - from scientists to doctors to dancers and those in the arts. Everyone has such a unique and interesting story and there is an automatic connection for those of us in the Cooke community.

What was the last book you read or movie/show you watched that you really enjoyed and highly recommend?

I recently rewatched Yellowjackets – a TV series that follows a soccer group that was stranded in deserted wilderness. It is pretty dark with a serious ‘90s soundtrack and lots of girl power.

If you were to create your own cookie, what would it consist of and what name would you give it?

I would create the ‘Rainbow Riot Cookie’ to be inspired by the Stonewall Riots and other events that have been catalysts for LGBTQ rights. Honoring the history of the movement has always been paramount to me and I want to root this colorful cookie in the movement’s past. It would be a rainbow shaped and colored sugar cookie – with large fluffy clouds on either side. All profits would go to a LGBTQ non-profit like Lambda Legal or The Ali Forney Center!!