By
In 2013, there were many seniors to remember. Our staff sat down and had conversations with six members of the Class of 2013 who exemplify what's best about Boston College. (See a video of our Seniors to Remember here.)
Hometown: Wallingford, Conn.
Major: Economics
Notable activities: Captain of the 2012-2013 men’s ice hockey team; volunteer tutor and mentor at St. Columbkille Partnership School in Brighton.
Post-graduation plans: Signed to play professional hockey this fall for the Chicago Blackhawks American Hockey League affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs.
Overview: As captain of the 2012 men’s ice hockey team, Pat Mullane led the most celebrated class in BC sports history, winning two national championships, three Hockey East championships and four Beanpot titles in four years. Respected throughout the NCAA for his intelligence, poise and maturity, he also distinguished himself as a volunteer at the St. Columbkille Partnership School in Brighton, where he tutored and mentored students on a weekly basis throughout his four years.
How have your activities influenced your years at Boston College?
I am so fortunate to have been a student at Boston College and to have played hockey for coach Jerry York. Wearing the maroon and gold is the greatest honor any collegiate athlete could ever ask for. I also loved my academic experience at BC, from the classes to the accessibility of professors outside of the classroom. There are so many people at Boston College who are here to help students. They helped to shape me as a student and an athlete into a well-rounded person.
I also really enjoyed my experience as a tutor and mentor at St. Columbkille School. I was paired these last four years with a little boy named Justin. This year, he was accepted into seventh grade at Roxbury Latin. It was one of the most rewarding things for me watching him progress, knowing that I had a small impact on his life that will help him to one day get to the point where he can be as fortunate as I am.
Which faculty members and mentors had the greatest effect on your personal development?
[Associate Professor] Fabio Ghironi in Economics and [part-time faculty member] Andrea Defusco in English were two of my favorite professors. Professor Ghironi truly cared about what his students thought and wanted to be sure they learned and understood the material. Professor Defusco loved her subject and her students, and was so willing to help anyone who needed it.
In addition, Jerry York has affected me in so many ways. To learn from him and watch how he conducts himself and treats other people was invaluable. He remains a wonderful role model for me, and represents the type of person I aspire to be. When he eventually retires, he will be remembered more for the person that he is rather than his 930-plus wins. [Campus Ministry Director] Fr. Tony Penna was also a huge part of my Boston College experience. What he brings in terms of advice and support to this community is unmatched. He is a remarkable person and priest who is so easy to talk to. He is truly a wonderful resource for Boston College.
How has Boston College made a difference in your life?
When I was growing up, I always had an affinity for Boston College. When I came here as a student I learned why it is so special. In addition to the great education and the chance to play hockey for BC, it has opened so many doors for me and allowed me to meet so many exceptional people. BC gives you the foundation that you need to be successful. Whatever field you want to go into, whatever you want to do, there are people here to help you to achieve your goal.
What will you miss most about BC?
I will miss the family-oriented community and the culture. It is the best four years of your life for a reason. I will obviously miss hockey and my teammates and friends, but the community, the classes and being a college student here is what I will miss most.
Of what are you most proud?
My mother often tells me how proud she is of me. I want her to know how proud I am of her. My father died when I was eight years old, and what my mother has done for me and my sister personally, athletically and financially is just unbelievable. She sacrificed and put everything on the backburner for us. I don’t think I will ever be able to repay her for what she has given me.