Ella Perkins

Background

About Ella Perkins

Hello! My name is Ella Perkins, and I recently completed my undergraduate degree at UCLA, where I majored in Sociology and minored in Entrepreneurship. One of the most meaningful parts of my college experience was co-founding and co-directing YEP! at UCLA: an entrepreneurship incubator program designed to empower underserved public high school students in the Los Angeles area. Hosted on campus and led by UCLA students, faculty, and local entrepreneurs, the program aimed to demystify entrepreneurship, foster self-confidence, and introduce participants to the value of higher education. Across three cohorts, I helped design and evolve curriculum, led weekly sessions, recruited and managed volunteers, secured funding, and oversaw outreach and logistics for our culminating pitch day, where students presented their ventures to panels of industry professionals. My time at UCLA enhanced my passion for business development and marketing. My background in Sociology provides me with a strong understanding of consumer behavior, social dynamics, and cultural contexts, enabling me to approach challenges with a deeper awareness of the social forces that drive individual decision-making. Meanwhile, my education in Entrepreneurship has equipped me with the tools to translate insights into actionable strategies, fostering innovation and sustainable growth. I’m eager to further explore opportunities where I can leverage both my creative and analytical skills to contribute to mission-driven organizations and help shape their success.