The Johnnies Blog

Welcome to Johnnie's Blog, your one-stop shop for navigating the college experience and beyond. Whether you're a future undergraduate or graduate student, we're here to help you make the most informed decision about your future and prepare for success.
Overhead of the Empire State Building in New York City

Navigating the Future of Homeland Security and Criminal Justice: From 9/11 to Tomorrow

In the wake of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the United States found itself confronting a new reality—one marked by unprecedented threats to national security. In response to these challenges, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) emerged as a pivotal force in safeguarding the nation against terrorism and other hazards. The DHS represented the largest restructuring of the federal government since World War II, consolidating the efforts of 22 disparate agencies into a unified entity tasked with protecting the homeland. In this article, we examine the creation of the DHS and how it has evolved throughout the years—as well as what the future may hold for homeland security and criminal justice leadership.

Headshot of St. John's Alumna and founder of Fin Lit Kids

Financial Literacy Tips and Lessons from Ebony Beckford ’03CPS

Are you a college student or a recent graduate who wants to learn how to build a solid financial foundation for your future? In this Q&A session, we speak with Ebony (Rentas) Beckford ’03CPS, a St. John’s alumna who is an author, entrepreneur, and financial literacy advocate. Ms. Beckford shares her personal story of overcoming financial challenges during and after graduation. She also provides simple steps that anyone can take to develop a healthy relationship with money and how these practices are applied in her company, Fin Lit Kids.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
A portable container of healthy snack options for college students

Affordable, Healthy Snacks for College Students

Snacking is an essential part of every busy college student’s life. However, overindulging in processed and high-sugar snacks such as potato chips, candy bars, and cookies can have adverse health effects and impact academic performance. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable healthy snacks accessible on and off campus.

This blog post guides you through healthy snacking, including budgeting, nutrition, and snack ideas.

St. Johns University Campus Dietician, Simon Gmuca
Simone Gmuca
St. John's University Queens, New York Residence Hall Dorms

What is Living in a College Dorm Like?

Living in a college dorm is a common experience for many students. It’s natural to feel anxious as move-in day approaches, but if you plan, you’ll find it more manageable.

I’m Madison, a junior at St. John’s University, and I have been living on the Queens, NY, campus since my first year. I have experienced living with roommates, coexisting in small spaces, doing laundry in a dorm building, and so much more. In this blog, I share the reality of living in a college dorm to prepare you for your college move-in day.

St. John's University Student
Madison Coombs
St. John's University Student

My Advice to a College Freshman: Embrace Growth, Keep Moving

Choosing to go to college is a challenging decision, especially if you are like me. During my first few years of high school, I thought I knew what I wanted to pursue, but eventually, I needed clarification about my future aspirations. I did not want to continue my education after high school, but at the same time, I was still determining what I wanted to do.

All I knew was that I needed a new start. In this blog, I share my experiences and insights to help you navigate this exciting, yet challenging, journey.

Kyntel Hines

New York Special Education Certification Changes

There has been a persistent shortage statewide of special education instructors. The New York State Education Department’s certification requirements and segmentation for special needs instructors are changing to combat this shortage. The New York State Department of Education is creating a Students with Disabilities (SWD) (All Grades) certificate.

St. John's University Junior Students

A Junior’s Advice to a College Freshman

Dear future college student, congratulations on making it this far! My name is Madison, and I am a junior majoring in public relations at St. John’s University.
 
It’s normal to feel nervous about starting college, but don’t worry—resources are available to help you succeed. In this blog post, I share valuable pieces of advice that I wish I had received when I was a college freshman.
 

St. John's University Student
Madison Coombs