Ariana Pistorino 

College Admissions Consultant

Former admissions officer at
University of San Francisco
Mount Saint Mary’s University
Franklin University of Switzerland
Former Director of College Counseling at
Louisville High School
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ABOUT Ariana PistorinoCOLLEGE ADMISSIONS CONSULTANT

My Background

I’ve been lucky to work for a wide variety of colleges and universities throughout my career. Most recently I was Assistant Vice Provost of Admission at University of San Francisco, where I was responsible for the recruitment strategy and admissions decisions for 30 academic departments, including four degree lines: the Schools of Nursing, Education, Business, and Engineering. I also served as the athletic liaison for the D1 Athletics program, oversaw the Getty Honors College selection process, and reviewed applications for admission to the BSJD dual degree program. Before USF, I was Director of Academic & College Advising at Louisville High School in Woodland Hills, California where I worked with students applying into a wide range of schools and programs both in and outside of California. Earlier in my career I was Head of North American Recruitment for Franklin University in Switzerland where I recruited students from all around North America and developed an understanding of European K12, Canadian, and Latin American education systems. And my career began as a regional admissions officer for both Seton Hall in New Jersey and Mount Saint Mary’s, a women’s college in Los Angeles.  

My Education

University of California, Los Angeles
Bachelor of Arts, Study of Religion
University of San Francisco
Master of Business Administration

My Areas of Expertise

Click below to learn more about my past experiences

I have worked with students interested in:
  • Accelerated dental - BS/DDS
  • Accelerated medical - BS/DO
  • Accelerated medical - BS/MD
  • Aerospace
  • Architecture
  • Art
  • Aviation
  • Biochemistry
  • BS/DO (doctor of osteopathic medicine)
  • Business
  • Communication
  • Computer science
  • Conservatories (Music/Fine Arts)
  • Dance
  • Data science
  • Economics
  • Engineering
  • Fashion
  • Film
  • Game design
  • Government
  • Graphic design
  • HBCUs
  • Hispanic serving
  • Honors programs
  • Humanities
  • International relations
  • Ivy league
  • Journalism
  • Large State Schools
  • Marine biology
  • Mathematics
  • Military/Service academies
  • Music
  • Nursing
  • Photography
  • Physical therapy
  • Political science
  • Pre-dentistry
  • Pre-law
  • Pre-med
  • Pre-veterinary
  • Psychology
  • Religiously affiliated schools
  • Religious Studies/Theology
  • Research universities
  • ROTC
  • Science
  • Small liberal arts colleges
  • Social Sciences
  • Sports analytics
  • Teaching/education certification
  • Technology
  • Theater
  • Two year colleges
  • Visual and performing arts
  • Women's colleges
I have also worked with:
  • Athletes
  • First-generation students
  • Gap year students
  • Home schooled students
  • IB program
  • International students
  • LGBTQIA+ students
  • Non-traditional students
  • Students with learning differences
  • Transfer students

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Why I Joined College Coach

As a first-generation student, I didn't have much help navigating the college process. Now, I'm thrilled to be in a position in my career where I can use my experience to help reduce anxiety and assist students in finding the right fit for them. Whether it's discussing studying abroad, staying in-state, or debunking myths about women's colleges, my experience has given me a unique background to help students explore their best options. I love meeting students where they are, validating and celebrating their unique strengths, and empowering them throughout their college application journey.

My Favorite Pastimes

In my free time, I love having fun with my two sons, paddle boarding. For a mental escape, I like to dive deep into the world of Lord of the Rings, or enjoy the charming Gilmore Girls. I also am always on the hunt for the best matcha latte on the West Coast.

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