The Johnnies Blog
College Admission Terms 101: What to Know Before You Apply
Learn the college admission terms every applicant should know, explained by experts at St. John’s University to help you apply with confidence.
Undergraduate Research: Why You Should Get Involved
You don’t have to wait until graduate school to start your research journey. Undergraduate research offers you the opportunity to explore the subjects that inspire you; work alongside faculty who are experts in their fields; and apply what you’re learning in meaningful, real-world ways.
In this blog, you learn more about what undergraduate research is, what it looks like in practice, and how it can shape your college journey.
Building a Personal Brand Through Campus Leadership and Passion Projects
Read how Matthew de Prado ’25CCPS turned creativity and campus leadership at St. John’s into a powerful personal brand—and how you can, too.
How to Land Strong College Recommendation Letters
When it comes to applying to college, letters of recommendation can play a surprisingly significant role—especially if you apply test-optional or want to highlight your personal growth. But how do you choose the right recommender, and what makes a letter truly stand out?
Finding the Right College Starts with Asking the Right Questions
Not sure what to ask on a college tour? Use this checklist and tips from experts at St. John’s University to get real answers and find the right fit for you.
College Rankings Are Useful. Campus Culture Is Essential.
Rankings only tell you so much. Campus culture shapes your college experience. Learn how to find your fit and see how St. John’s University in Queens, NY, gets it right.
Impactful Extracurricular Activities to Add to College Applications
Wondering how to make your college application stand out? Your high school extracurriculars might be the key to catching an admission officer’s attention and securing that acceptance letter.
How to Set Academic Goals: 4 Steps for Early College Success
Entering college is an exciting chapter filled with possibilities—but without a clear plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Setting academic goals can transform your experience from simply getting by to achieving extraordinary success.
This guide helps you master academic goals, stay focused, and unlock your full potential in your first year and beyond.
How to Stand Out in College Applications and Impress Admissions Officers
When it comes to college applications, there’s a common myth the more extracurricular activities you list, the better. Maybe you’ve heard you need to be in every club, volunteer at every opportunity, and take on as many leadership roles as possible to impress admissions officers. But here’s the truth: colleges don’t want to see a long list of random activities—they want to see meaningful commitment.
Pre-College Preparation: 6 Proven Activities for Academic and Mental Readiness
Are you counting down the days until you begin your college journey? As a high school senior, you are likely experiencing a mix of excitement and uncertainty about what lies ahead. Transitioning from high school to college is a significant milestone, and making the most of your remaining time before your first year of college can set you up for success academically and mentally.