Did you hear?
Libby Raviv is going to Columbia.
It started as a rumor—the kind you hear in the hallway and do a double-take. Not because it’s shocking, but because it just makes sense.
If you don’t know Libby Raviv, you’re missing out. And if you do, you already know that she’s the kind of person who treats life like a treasure hunt—always chasing new ideas, new cities, new questions. Not to impress anyone, but because that’s simply who she is. A free spirit. A curious mind. A relentless doer. For the past four years at Claremont High, Raviv has brought that energy to everything she ever pursued—juggling German Club, Speech and Debate, basketball, and a full IB course load. And now, she’s taking it to the Ivy League.
With a 4% acceptance rate, Columbia University is one of the best and most prestigious schools of higher education in the country—and the world. An Ivy League institution, it counts Barack Obama, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Timothée Chalamet among its alumni. And this fall, Libby Raviv will walk those same halls.
“I’ve never been to New York, but I’ve heard great things about Columbia,” Raviv said. “I love big cities. I like exploring new things.”
Upon enrolling, Raviv plans to study neuroscience and psychology, a perfect fit for someone fascinated by how people think, act, and connect.
“Their curriculum is kind of like the IB diploma I’m doing—a mix of classes across subjects,” Raviv said. “It’s a really well-rounded education, and New York is full of opportunities. I just love meeting new people and learning new things.”
But here’s the truth: Raviv didn’t get into Columbia because she checked every box. She got in because she created her own. Raviv is the kind of person who says what everyone else is afraid to and lives like she means it.
“If you have to choose between studying for a test or going out, always pick going out,” Raviv said, grinning. “You won’t remember the test you failed, but you’ll remember the memories you made. You can quote me on that.”
To underclassmen, she offers some honest advice:
“Don’t do things because you think colleges will like it,” Raviv said. “Do things because you actually care. And if you don’t anymore, that’s fine.”
When asked about favorite CHS memories, Raviv offered an honest take on a program that she loved.
“Though it had its ups and downs, I really loved the German exchange program.”
And when asked for shoutouts? No hesitation: “Justine, Heidi, Gia, and Macy.”
So yeah—did you hear?
Libby Raviv is going to Columbia.
At first, it sounded like big news. Now? It just feels right. Because really, where else would someone like her go?
