Center for Student Success

What We Do

The Center for Student Success empowers students to thrive academically, personally, and professionally. We provide a safe and supportive environment, inclusive of academic and career advising, tutoring and academic support resources, and success programs. We are your connection to campus and committed to fostering a strong sense of belonging, ensuring you are seen, heard, and supported as you successfully navigate your unique path and transition into the University community and beyond. 

  • Email

    [email protected]
  • Office Location

    St. Augustine Hall (University Library), Room 104
  • Phone

    718-990-5858
  • Office Hours

    Monday – Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Friday 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Whether you are a future or current first-year student, a parent, family member or supporter, or a guidance counselor, we are excited that you wish to learn more about the Center for Student Success and hope you enjoy viewing our site. 

Female student mover carrying Macy bags

First-Year Academic Advising

All first-year students are assigned a personal academic advisor to assist with academic decisions, review policies and procedures and guide them through the transition to college.  The advisors are the students’ gateway to the many support services available at St. John’s University.  Upon submission of their admission deposit, students are invited to meet with an advisor (In-person or remotely) to discuss factors that will play an important role in the creation of their first semester’s academic schedule.  Advisors will continue to meet students during key times throughout the year to review academic performance and advise students for courses during the upcoming semesters.  In addition, advisors are available to meet with students by scheduling an appointment or sending an e-mail anytime they have a question.     

Click here to view a general framework of courses typically completed by each major during the first three semesters.

The below  Advising Syllabus provides an outline of the academic advising process, along with links to useful resources and support services. 

St. Augustine Hall

Student Success Programs

Our Student Success Programs team is committed to helping our students thrive academically, personally, and professionally. Learning how to build relationships with the University, with professors, and with each other is an important skill to develop. Our first-year programs are designed to strengthen students’ ability to connect with the St. John's community with a focus on building strategies to enhance their academic skills.

Three law students studying in library

Academic Achievement

To ensure a student's achievement in the classroom we provide peer tutoring and other resources to help students hone their academic skills​

Male student walking across campus during Orientation

Major Exploration

Students are encouraged to connect for support and guidance for exploration of major options and foundation of career readiness​

Meet the Team

Joni O'Hagan 
Executive Director of the Center for Student Success

First-Year Academic Advising

Dr. Charles C. Pizzo
Director, First-Year Academic Advising 

Dr. Jennifer L. Newsom
Associate Director, First-Year Academic Advising

Alison Celaya
Associate Director, First-Year Academic Advising

Gerard Fabian Cajas
Associate Director, First-Year Academic Advising

Gerri Vopelak
PT Advisor, First-Year Academic Advising

David Duryea
Assistant Director, First-Year Academic Advising

Udeshika Abeysena
Assistant Director, First-Year Academic Advising

David Strauss
Assistant Director, First-Year Academic Advising

Thomas Boehrer
Assistant Director, First-Year Academic Advising

First-Year Programs

Vacant
Director of First-Year Programs 

Academic Achievement

Alexandra Marquez
Director of Academic Achievement

Melissa Tirelli 
Assistant Director, Academic Achievement

Mario Cornejo
Assistant Director, Academic Achievement

Linda Dersch
PT Office Assistant 

First-Year Career Advising

Kenneth Emeghebo
Associate Director of Career Services/First-Year Career Advising

Frances Sarcona
Associate Director of Career Services/First-Year Career Advising

Department Support

Betzaida Gonzalez
Support Staff