Campus Life at St. John’s: A Resident Student’s View
As a student who has lived on the St. John’s University Queens, NY, campus for four years, I’ve experienced campus life firsthand. From navigating student housing and adjusting to shared spaces, to building lasting friendships and finding a sense of community, my time living on campus has meaningfully shaped my college journey.
In this blog, I share an inside look at life on campus as a resident student—covering everything from my experience in campus housing to dining halls, campus events, and New York City (NYC) adventures.
I. Living on Campus
As a resident student, living on campus is a big part of the college journey. While it comes with challenges—like adjusting to smaller spaces, sharing with new roommates, and managing homesickness —it can also be one of the most rewarding aspects of your experience.
Living on campus has been overwhelmingly positive for me. I’ve grown more independent, formed lasting friendships, and discovered a true sense of community.
Check out my other blog post to learn more about living in a college residence room!
A Resident Student Community That Supports You
The other resident students on your campus will quickly become your own little community. Familiar faces become friends; before you know it, you’ll recognize and connect with many of your fellow residents. A built-in support system on campus is invaluable, especially when you are an out-of-state student like me.
Recently, I made a few new friends through my classes. After completing several courses together during my college journey, we finally connected. We discovered that we have a lot in common and quickly became close friends!
School Spirit in the Residence Halls
Living on campus has definitely taken my school pride to the next level. From cheering on the Red Storm during watch parties in the residence halls, to coordinating “wear your St. John’s gear” days with friends, there’s something about being surrounded by fellow resident students that makes the energy contagious. It’s in these everyday moments when I feel most connected to the campus community.
II. The Campus Social Scene
Clubs, Student Organizations, and Finding Your People
Campus clubs and organizations are among the best ways to meet new people and gain career skills to take with you after graduation. St. John’s University has more than 180 student clubs—so there’s truly something for everyone to experience and grow.
Joining the St. John’s Red House Fashion Club has been one of the most impactful parts of my college experience. During my first year, I was encouraged to attend a modeling casting for the club’s fashion show, and that experience inspired me to get more involved. Now, I serve as the club’s President and, more recently, got to plan this year’s Spring Fashion Show.
Through my leadership experience, I have gained leadership and communication skills. More recently, I landed my dream internship at The Daily Front Row, thanks to a fellow club member who shared the opportunity with the group.
Day and Night Campus Activities
St. John’s Campus Activities offer fun weekly and recurring events for all students. From themed brunches to there’s always something fun to do and new ways to get involved.
One of my favorite University events was a glow-in-the-dark roller-skating party held at the start of the Fall 2024 semester. The event had an amazing DJ, great food, games, and, of course, a roller-skating rink! I had never roller-skated before, so it was fun to try something new.
III. Dining on Campus
Why Dining Halls Are More Than a Place to Eat
While the dining hall is a convenient spot to grab a meal or a quick snack, it’s also a major social hub on campus. I love meeting with friends there to catch up between classes or unwind at the end of the day. You never know who you’ll run into—an old friend or even someone new!
One of my favorite things about the dining hall options at St. John’s is their proximity to the residence halls. I’ll be honest—there are days when I don’t feel like walking far. But because the dining hall is nearby and easy to get to, I never mind making the trip. My favorite food spot on campus is Pico Mesa, a restaurant in the Marillac Hall cafeteria. It’s a build-your-own burrito bowl spot, with other snacks available for purchase, like empanadas!
IV. Campus Proximity to NYC
City Adventures Are Just a Subway or Bus Ride Away
Being in the heart of New York City means your college experience comes with endless opportunities to explore the five boroughs. With public transportation accessible from campus, your weekends could include a museum day, a Queens food tour, or going to see the Statue of Liberty.
Plus, St. John’s makes creating memories off campus affordable and easy. Through Campus Concierge, students can snag discounted tickets to fun events such as Broadway shows and sports games.
Experience the St. John’s Queen’s Campus Culture.
Being a student at St. John’s University comes with so many benefits. Whether you’re enjoying events, joining clubs, eating with friends in the dining hall, or repping your school spirit, you’ll find that the campus culture creates an unforgettable college experience.
If you’re considering living on campus—I say go for it! I wouldn’t change my decision at all. It’s taught me so much about myself, and I believe it can do the same for you.
Want to explore campus life for yourself?
I highly recommend taking a campus tour. It’s the best way to explore the residence halls, get a feel for the community, and imagine what your life could look like here at St. John’s.
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