Meet Our New Intern! Patricia Juarbe Rivera

October 09, 2025

Meet Patricia Juarbe Rivera, one of our new interns in the Data and Advanced Analytics unit! Originally from Puerto Rico, Patricia attends the University of Kentucky, pursuing a degree in economics and public policy. We recently caught up with her to learn more about her as she gains invaluable experience interning with CPE.

What drew you to CPE?

I was drawn to the agency’s commitment to improving access and success in higher education. 

Why do you think the work our data unit team does matters? Why should people listen? 

By collecting and analyzing data, the team is able to provide insight into how students and postsecondary education institutions are doing across the state. With this, decisionmakers can help make informed choices that directly impact access, success and outcomes. People should listen because the work we do helps tell a real story about how the education system works to serve its people. 

Why does higher education matter to you?

To me, higher education reflects all the great things about the United States: it is a place where anyone has the chance to learn, grow and achieve their goals. It's the embodiment of opportunity [for a better life].

What skills/insights do you hope to gain out of this experience?

I’m very excited to sharpen my technical skills in data analysis and visualization. I’d like to get more insight into how data is used when making informed decisions, specifically decisions that improve higher ed. 

Ultimately, what kind of difference do you hope your contributions will make for higher education in Kentucky?

I’d like my contributions to help shed light on the challenges students face and help leaders make decisions that improve access for all.

Fun fact about Patricia: She loves camping!

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CPE's Data and Advanced Analytics Unit plays a critical role in driving the agency’s strategic agenda by providing meaningful insights on higher education issues to the Governor’s Office and state legislature. It is also nationally recognized for its innovative research and longitudinal data system.

To learn more about CPE’S data center, click here: https://cpe.ky.gov/data/index.html