Patty Pirone-Rice
College Advisor
Working in college admissions for over a decade, Patty has read thousands of applications during her tenure at various universities. Most recently, she was an Admissions Reader for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Office of Undergraduate Admissions for eight years. She evaluated prospective students’ applications for admission to MIT’s incoming freshman classes using a holistic approach that considers all aspects of a student’s background. Her experience reading applications has highlighted the importance of students sharing their stories and showcasing their interests and talents.
Earlier in her career, Patty worked as an Associate Director of Admissions at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where she was Chairperson of the Girls to College program, helping young women from underrepresented backgrounds learn about higher education. She also was the primary liaison for international applicants. As a graduate student, Patty interned in the undergraduate admissions office at Boston College presenting information sessions to large groups of visiting students and families, and also worked in the Career Services Office at Babson College helping students refine their resumes.
Patty has a Master’s in Higher Education Administration from Boston College and a Bachelor’s from the University of New Hampshire. She has experience in college admissions from both the institution and the parent sides, as she has guided her two oldest children through the process. Patty lives in Andover, Massachusetts with her husband Chris and their tiny red poodle, who often makes sneak appearances during Zoom meetings.
Best Advice: “Spend your time doing the things that you truly care about and get you excited because that is where you will be the most successful and have the greatest impact. Your unique narrative and story will shine when you are true to your interests and the things that inspire you.”