The Johnnies Blog

You’re Not Alone: Support for First-Generation Students at St. John’s
Ulises Garcia Jr., Assistant Director of First-Year Mentoring Programs at St. John’s University, offers a message of encouragement and belonging to every first-generation student taking this transformative first step.

First-Gen and Fearless: Miguel’s Journey at St. John’s University
From Brooklyn, NY, to leadership success—how one first-generation student turned a challenge into a calling.

Breaking Barriers: A First-Generation College Student’s Story
My name is Teodita, pronounced “tea-oh-dye-tuh.” I once felt my name was a burden, as it often led to teasing from peers and teacher mispronunciations. However, my name embodies my identity. I am half Guatemalan and half Dominican, and both cultures have profoundly influenced who I am as a first-generation college student.
The First-Generation Student Advantage: What Sets You Apart?
What does being the first in your family to attend college mean? For many, it’s about breaking barriers and stepping into new opportunities. First-generation college students, especially those studying outside of their home country, bring unique strengths and perspectives that make their journeys one of a kind.
In this blog, we explore what it means to be a first-generation college student and hear directly from those leading the way, sharing their experiences and the advantages they’ve discovered.

My Journey into a Hospitality Career as a First-Generation Latinx Student
As a first-generation Latinx student navigating the dynamic environment of St. John’s University, I am driven by the challenges and opportunities that will prepare me for a successful career in hospitality management.
In this blog, I share some valuable experiences that have ignited my passion and equipped me with the skills needed to make a significant impact in the hospitality industry.
