Melanie Ruzzi was born in Burnville, MN. In 2003 she graduated at Providence College as Magna Cum Laude. Ruzzi was team captain in 2002-03 and captured Hockey East Honorable Mention honors as well as national all-academic accolades. She helped the Friars to the ECAC Eastern title as a junior and the inaugural Hockey East title in 2003. One of the most successful defenseman to wear a Providence College uniform.