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.
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
Three students working on computers in SJU Cyber Security Lab

Information Security vs Cyber Security: Are They the Same?

In the digital world we live in today, the terms “information security” and “cybersecurity” are often used interchangeably. However, despite their similarities, the two concepts have a few key differences that are important to understand.

This blog post explores these concepts in detail, breaking down the key distinctions and similarities between information security and cybersecurity. Additionally, we delve into the exciting world of cyber and information security careers, uncovering overlapping skills and discussing what you can do with a master’s degree in this dynamic field.

Katarina Kobetitsch
Katarina Kobetitsch
a group of people do yoga on a lawn

10 Mental Health Activities for College Students

Starting college is an exciting and significant phase in your life. However, it is crucial to prioritize your mental health to make the most of this opportunity. Taking care of your well-being can improve your productivity, enhance your mood, and optimize your physical health.

We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 10 mental health activities for college students. We hope these activities will help you stay healthy, happy, and productive throughout your academic journey.

St. John's University Student
Madison Coombs