Center for Student Success

We realize that college can be quite different from high school.  You must now adjust to the new demands expected of you by your professors.  This is reflected in the various assignments and exams you will be given in the approximately 15 week long semesters.  You will need to demonstrate time management and strong study habits to achieve your goals during your first year of studies. In addition to your academic transition, you will have the opportunity to grow socially, personally and spiritually.  

Your personal advisor will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition to St. John’s.  They “know the ropes” and would like nothing better than to assist you in achieving success.

Stop by at any time.  Remember, it’s your University Freshman Center!
We are located in St. Augustine Hall (University Library), Room 104 and may be reached at 718-990-5858.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the University Freshman Center?

The University Freshman Center is a team of academic advisors committed to helping first-year students succeed at St. John’s University, both inside and outside the classroom.  We are located in St. Augustine Hall (University Library), Room 104.

What makes the University Freshman Center unique?

At St. John’s University, students will have only one personal advisor during their freshman year.  We encourage students to take an active part in their education.  Students will work collaboratively with their personal advisor to discuss courses, majors, extra and co-curricular activities, and career interests. 

If I decide to change my major, will I remain with the same freshman advisor?

Yes, you will remain with the same freshman advisor throughout your first-year.  Your advisor will assist you with any changes to your academic plan and/or major. At the conclusion of your first year, you will be assigned a new advisor, located in your dean’s office or academic department.

How are courses selected for freshmen? 

Courses are pre-selected (based upon the student’s course of study) for the first semester of freshman year.  Going forward, advisors will meet with the student to guide them through the course selection process. Students will also be instructed on the process of registering for courses via the St. John’s University website.

What should I do with my AP scores and college credits?

As an incoming student, you may have completed Advanced Placement (AP) exams or college credits through your high school.  This may allow you to earn credits towards your St. John’s degree.

All official AP score reports must be sent to St. John’s University directly from the College Board.  For college credit courses, you must forward all official transcripts directly from the college/university offering the credit.  A listing of these courses on your high school transcript will not be accepted.  Once these documents are received with your application and other supporting materials, they will be evaluated and you will be notified via your St. John’s University email account of any credits earned. 

Minimum AP scores vary by subject and among particular academic programs.  The same holds true for college courses completed through your high school.  For particular questions on scores and courses, please speak to a University Freshman Center advisor at one of the many events in which we are present.

Beginning your college career is an exciting and memorable time in your life. You will meet new people, see new sights and savor new experiences. Whether you commute to or reside on campus, a new world awaits you. The cornerstone of support throughout your first year is the University Freshman Center and your advisor. 

We realize that college can be quite different from high school.  You must now adjust to the new demands expected of you by your professors.  This is reflected in the various assignments and exams you will be given in the approximately 15 week long semesters.  You will need to demonstrate time management and strong study habits to achieve your goals during your first year of studies. In addition to your academic transition, you will have the opportunity to grow socially, personally and spiritually.  

Your personal advisor will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition to St. John’s.  They “know the ropes” and would like nothing better than to assist you in achieving success.

Stop by at any time.  Remember, it’s your University Freshman Center!
We are located in St. Augustine Hall (University Library), Room 104 and may be reached at 718-990-5858.

Make an appointment with your advisor online by clicking the link in their email signature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the University Freshman Center?

The University Freshman Center is a team of academic advisors committed to helping first-year students succeed at St. John’s University, both inside and outside the classroom.  We are located in St. Augustine Hall (University Library), Room 104. 

How can my advisor help me during my freshman year?

Your advisor will assist with your transition to St. John’s University. This includes discussing academic decisions such as declaring a major/minor, selecting classes towards your degree, and making sure you have access to the resources helpful for achieving success in your first year. Such resources include tutoring, writing support, and joining clubs, sports or organizations on campus. COMMUNICATION is key to success, so please keep your appointments and check your St. John’s University email daily for important information.

How can I schedule an appointment with my freshman advisor?

Students may contact their advisor via email, phone, or by visiting the University Freshman Center. Appointments may be made simply by clicking the link in the advisor’s email. For urgent matters, no appointment is necessary.

How can I review my degree requirements?

Your degree requirements may be found by viewing your advisement report on UIS. The report lists all current and future courses related to your program of study. Your advisor will inform you of which courses you may complete during the upcoming semester. Follow the below steps to access the report. For more information, please email or schedule an appointment with your advisor.

• Log in to MySJU and select UIS (right side of page)
• Select “Student”
• Select “Student Records”
• Select “Advisement Report”
• Click “Generate New Evaluation”
• Click the circle next to “Program”
• Click “Generate Request”
• Click “Generate New Report”
• Click “Detail Requirements”
• Click “Submit

How may I get involved on campus?

We encourage all students to join a club, organization, or sport, on campus. With over 100 choices, there is something for everyone! Getting involved will help you feel more connected to St. John’s University. You will also meet new people and gain valuable leadership experience that you may add to your resume. Whether you reside on campus or commute, there are plenty of activities and organizations from which to choose. Check out our Campus Activities website and speak with your advisor for more information.

What is Phi Eta Sigma?

Phi Eta Sigma is a national honor society whose goal is to encourage and reward academic excellence among freshmen in institutions of higher learning.  The oldest and largest freshman honor society, Phi Eta Sigma was founded at the University of Illinois on March 22, 1923, and now has more than 350 chapters throughout the United States and more than 900,000 members. In order to be eligible for membership, St. John’s University students must achieve a minimum 3.70 cumulative index at the end of their first year of study.

For information on this wonderful honor society, please visit Phi Eta Sigma’s official website.

Letter From the Associate Provost

Dear Student,

It is with great enthusiasm that I welcome you to St. John’s University.

The University Freshman Center was created to provide you with support throughout your first year on campus.  This is a testament to how important you are to the University. 

Regardless of your major, all first-year students receive their advising through this area.  Our advising team is eager to assist you with all matters related to your academic success and overall transition to the University.  Since its creation in 2001, the University Freshman Center has offered academic advising and support services to all incoming students.  Our advisors are a critical resource that you can rely upon throughout your first year on campus.  You will be assigned a personal advisor that is here to guide you and assist you as you journey through this exciting time at the beginning of your college career.

I invite you to take advantage and embrace all that St. John’s University has to offer.  By making friends, connecting with faculty and taking part in various educational and extracurricular activities, you will become fully engaged in our community.

Please use our website to explore the programs, services, and people associated with the University Freshman Center.

Together, we are St. John’s!

Dr. Jacqueline H. Grogan
Associate Provost for Student Success

College is an exciting time for students and parents alike. The University Freshman Center provides all first-year students with advisement and guidance.  We realize that freshmen benefit immensely from continuous support during their transition to higher education. The University Freshman Center advisors meet with students throughout their first year to discuss academics, campus support services and the many extracurricular activities at St. John’s University.  Successful students are those who are involved in activities both inside and outside the classroom.  We are excited that you wish to learn more about the University Freshman Center and hope you enjoy viewing our site. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the University Freshman Center?

The University Freshman Center is a team of academic advisors committed to helping first-year students succeed at St. John’s University, both inside and outside the classroom.  We are located in St. Augustine Hall (University Library), Room 104. 

What makes the University Freshman Center unique?

At St. John’s University, students will have only one personal advisor during their freshman year.  We encourage students to take an active part in their education.  Students will work collaboratively with their personal advisor to discuss courses, majors, extra and co-curricular activities, and career interests. 

When are students assigned a freshman adviser?

Toward the end of August, students will receive a message to their St. John’s University email account indicating their advisor’s contact information.

How may students contact their advisor?

Students may contact their advisor via e-mail, phone, or by visiting the University Freshman Center.Appointments may be made simply by clicking the link in the advisor’s email.  For urgent matters, no appointment is necessary. 

How are courses selected for freshmen?

Courses are pre-selected (based upon the student’s course of study) for the first semester of freshman year.  Going forward, advisors will meet with the student to guide them through the course selection process. Students will also be instructed on the process of registering for courses via the St. John’s University website.

How often will students meet with their advisors?

The University Freshman Center advisors will communicate with students at various times throughout the semester to discuss registration, midterm grades and academic goals.  However, we encourage students to meet with their advisor any time they wish. 

As student advisement professionals, you are providing your students with the necessary advice and support throughout their high school years. Much like the acclimation experienced at the beginning of high school, students must adjust to the new and unique environment of higher education.

The University Freshman Center is charged with providing a full range of advisement services, both academic and non-academic. Our advisors are full-time and are ready and willing to assist your students with the rigors and demands of higher education.  

Each first-year student will be assigned a personal advisor in the University Freshman Center. This individual will be available to assist the student with any aspect of his or her transition to college. Specifically, the advisor will develop an academic plan, tailored to each student’s unique goals. As the student’s primary contact, the advisor will make regular outreach to ensure that the student is engaged and acclimating to University life. Through the assistance of their advisor, each student will have access to a large number of support services and leadership opportunities, designed to help the student succeed academically, socially and personally.

We realize the incredible amount of effort and dedication you have demonstrated in ensuring that your students are well-prepared for their years of higher education. The University Freshman Center strives to continue this level of guidance and support as these young men and woman embark upon the next phase of their educational careers.

For further information or to speak with an advisor, please contact the University Freshman Center at 718-990-5858, 5809 or 2772.

Dr. Jacqueline Grogan
Associate Provost for Student Success

Andrew A. Lyons Jr.
Associate Director and Adjunct Assistant Professor

Jennifer L. Newsom
Associate Director and Adjunct Assistant Professor

Dr. Charles C. Pizzo
Associate Director and Adjunct Assistant Professor

Anna Donnelly
Director of Academic Achievement for the University Freshman Center & Director of Student Support Services, Division of Special and Opportunity Programs

Fabian Cajas
Associate Director

Lakeisha Armstrong
Assistant Director

Alison Celaya
Assistant Director and Adjunct Assistant Professor

Saima Khan
Assistant Director

Alexis A. Smith
Academic Support Services Advisor

Gerri Vopelak
Assistant Director and Adjunct Assistant Professor

Rosalba Basso
Support Staff

Betzaida Gonzalez
Support Staff

Nina Graffeo
Support Staff

Bruna Romeo
Support Staff

Those eligible for participation include:

• First generation college students whose parents are not college graduates
• Students from low-income households
• Students with a documented physical or learning disability

Participants must be enrolled at St. John's University or accepted for enrollment in the next academic term. They must also be a citizen or national of the U.S., or one who meets the residency requirements for federal student financial assistance.

SSS students benefit from support in the following areas:

• Academic Advisement and Peer Mentoring
• Professional Tutoring
•  Supplies (Notebooks, pens, etc)!
• Access to a private computer lab and free printing!
• Financial/Personal Guidance
• Career Exploration and Development Workshops
• Cultural Activities
• Field trips to Broadway shows and other great places in NYC!
• Advisement for entry into graduate/professional school
• Grant in Aid is given to active participants who are in need of financial assistance and meet the GPA academic year requirement.

Download the application.

You may also obtain the application from the Student Support Services Office, located in St. John's Hall Room 133. Eligible students are admitted into the program upon completion of an application form, a personal interview and an academic/career assessment.

For more information, please contact Project Director Anna Donnelly.

Student Support Servicesis affiliated with the university's Division of Special and Opportunity Programs. This division consists of a wide range of programs that provide academic and other supportive services for St. John’s students.

Goals of the SSS Program
As one of the U.S. Dept. of Education's federal TRIO programs, the goals of the SSS Program are to:

1. Increase the retention and graduation rates of eligible students.
2. Foster an institutional climate supportive of the success of low-income and first-generation college students.

Student Support Services Office Hours

Monday - Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

St. John’s Hall, Room 133
8000 Utopia Parkway
Queens, NY 11349
718-990-1371