CAHNRS Coug Connections: Serena Ranney

Each week, we showcase one of our CAHNRS Ambassadors, a student leadership organization that encourages students to pursue higher education and serves as a liaison between the college and the greater community. This week, we’re featuring Serena Ranney, a senior from Shelton, Wash.

Serena Ranney

What are you studying?

I’m majoring in Food Science.

Why did you choose WSU?

I was very strategic in my university planning. I applied to several schools, visited campuses, and did my research. WSU’s community, focus on student support (while also promoting student independence), and environment were unbeatable.

What is special about being a CAHNRS Coug?

CAHNRS has a strong focus on opportunity for students to lead and experience. In the classroom, through research, with internships and clubs: every component will have you feeling prepared to continue on in your field after college.

What is your favorite CAHNRS class so far and why?

Dairy Products Evaluation! This was a one-credit elective through Food Science. There were six people in the class, so we got really close throughout the semester. At the end, we travelled to Wisconsin to compete as a team, which was so fun! Plus who wouldn’t love the chance to taste ice cream, yogurt, milk, cottage cheese, and butter?

Who are influential professors that you’ve had, and how did they impact your life?

Frank Younce is so passionate about what he does. His excitement for Food Science and processing is infectious, and I was always happy to be in class.

Helen Joyner genuinely cares about student learning. Her classes pushed me to be a better teammate, student, and professional.

What extracurricular activities are you involved in besides ambassadors?

I’m the Food Science Club President and a member of the Food Science Product Development Team. I’m also Vice-President of WSU Circle K International, a community service club in the Kiwanis Family. I have worked in the CAHNRS Academic Programs Office since my freshman year and I started getting involved in research last spring.

What is a fun fact about you?

I’m a member of the Metal Detecting Association of Washington!

What advice would you give an incoming freshman/high school senior to help them adjust to college?

Relax! Coming to college is an exciting experience, but for many (including myself) it can take a while to adjust and realize you’re where you’re supposed to be. I spent a lot of time my freshman year worried about making friends, how I compared to others academically (especially coming from a rural area with few AP/IB options), and if I had picked the totally wrong place. But after a while, those fears go away and you hit your stride and find your place in the WSU community.

Favorite item/flavor at Ferdinand’s?

Tin Lizzy