Dr. Andrew Ferdinandi, an asset to the undergraduate program in the School of Education

"We admire Dr. Ferdinandi for his ability to multi-task and give of himself. He is a man of true character and passion." -Erica Zissel

“The right person at the right time can make the biggest difference. I try to be that for my students.”-Dr. Andrew Ferdinandi 

 Every so often, a professor comes along who dedicates their passion, knowledge, and overall being to their students. This is a perfect explanation of Dr. Andrew Ferdinandi’s career here at St. John’s University. From his work with the Vincentian community to the overall connection he makes with his students, it is needless to say that Dr. Ferdinandi is an incredible asset to the School of Education.

 Dr. Andrew Ferdinandi has his Doctorate in Counselor Education, is a licensed Mental Health Counselor, and is also certified in Counseling and Rehabilitation. Being a St. John’s University alumnus has really added to his integrity as a professor here. Dr. Ferdinandi is a strong advocate in the Vincentian mission, in which he always tries to incorporate within his classes and around the university, in general. He states, “I have always known about St. John’s. It is a university with a proud tradition that has a long history of serving the underprivileged, which is something I believe in and have practiced my whole life. The Vincentian experience on campus and the opportunity to do for others has made me feel like when I am here, I am home.” He continues, “The spirit of St. Vincent is alive and growing on this campus, and the attitude of students and activities I see going on make me feel hopeful that the life of St. Vincent and Louise de Marillac have created a path for us to follow.” Dr. Ferdinandi is very involved with the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and has done much work around campus advocating and laying out the path of service for students here at St. John’s. 

After being a student at St. John’s and working in his field, Dr. Ferdinandi decided to come back to teach at the university. In regard to his time in higher education, he states, “At this stage in my life, I thought it would be important to take the experience that I’ve gained from working in schools and hospitals, and share that with the young people who are just coming up into their adult world, so that they can take the place of me and others as we start to transition out. It is kind of like my way to pass the torch from me to next, and the best place to do it would be higher education.” He teaches Orientation to Mental Health Counseling, Orientation to School Counseling, Group Dynamics, Skills and Techniques, Multicultural Counseling, and Case Studies.

Though he is teaching students within the School of Education, Dr. Ferdinandi considers himself to be a life-long learner. His knowledge and experience in which he is able to share with his students is undeniable; but the extraordinary part about Dr. Ferdinandi is the fact that he is always open to learning and growing from the students in his classroom. His idea of giving and receiving knowledge within the classroom is something that education often lacks as of late. He states, “I have always loved being a teacher, whether middle school, whether working with young people struggling with mental illness, or working at a university. The exchange of ideas, the opportunity to hear what other people are thinking strengthens me and gives me hope about the future. It also allows me to be a life-long learner; I think I learn as much from my students as I teach them. I grow from every class and I’m grateful for the opportunity, I really am.” 

Simply having a conversation with Dr. Ferdinandi reveals his genuine care and hope for the students of St. John’s. His passion for what he does is one that is truly contagious. “Giving back is important to me, and if I can be a voice for people who might not otherwise have their voices heard, or help somebody get on the ladder of success by lending my hand makes me feel like I am doing the work I intended to do.” Dr. Ferdinandi is inspiring in his knowledge and passion, yet at the same time, he is inspired by what he does, in regards to teaching and spreading the Vincentian Mission.  

As Dr. Ferdinandi continues to inspire and be inspired, he leaves the students of St. John’s University within the School of Education with a strong piece of advice, “If you have a passion to be a teacher, follow that passion. Do not worry about the job market and things like that. Live a life that moves you—live a life that inspires you and inspires others to be like you.” Dr. Ferdinandi most certainly lives a life of passion, and spreads that passion to everyone and anyone he comes into contact with.