Service and Leadership Enhances St.
John’s Alum’s Educational Experience
With the confidence he gained as a student at
St. John’s, recent graduate Patrick McBurney C’10 is ready for the
next chapter in his life. A
Government and Politics major, he made sure that he took
advantage of the University’s incomparable academic, service and
leadership opportunities.
Following the family’s tradition of being
active in politics (his father is a state senator, as were both his
grandfathers), Patrick joined Student Government, Inc. as an
undergraduate and eventually became President.
He also chose to become involved in Greek life
— but did so in a way that would expand his spiritual horizons.
Impressed by the campus atmosphere of religious tolerance and
cultural diversity, Patrick who is Catholic, decided to join a
Jewish fraternity. As a member of Sigma Alpha Mu, Patrick provided
community service at local soup kitchens and parks.
His education was also enriched globally by
being able to attend leadership workshops overseas at the
University’s Rome campus and in Puerto Rico. These global
opportunities were available because of his high-level position in
Student Government.
The highlight of his time at St. John’s was
when he was invited to join the President’s Society — St. John’s
highest honor. As part of this prestigious society, Patrick
particularly enjoyed the chance to be an “ambassador” at major
University events, which involved engaging with distinguished
guests. “The chance to talk to them helped me to get to know
people from all walks of life. It also encouraged me to take the
initiative,” he said.
“Service and leadership were the perfect
complement to my studies. And St. John’s gave me so many
opportunities to get involved which is the best way to make a
difference.”