The Johnnies Blog

Welcome to the Johnnies Blog—where your college journey comes into focus. Designed for prospective students and their families, this space brings together authentic student voices, expert perspectives, and practical guidance to help you explore opportunities, navigate decisions, and build a meaningful path forward.
Student at a Spectrum LGBTQ+ Club tabling event at St. John’s University, celebrating inclusivity and community

LGBTQIA+ Student Support: How St. John’s University Leads the Way

As an LGBTQIA+ student, choosing a college or university that truly supports and celebrates you can transform your experience. St. John’s University is committed to creating a campus where you feel safe, valued, and empowered. Here, you find a community that genuinely embraces diversity with a strong dedication to fostering personal growth and academic success.

In this blog, you explore the resources and initiatives at St. John’s that make it a leader in LGBTQIA+ support. Plus, you hear directly from students and faculty involved in making campus life inclusive and supportive.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Stack of several Letters of Recommendation in an application pool, emphasizing the role of strong endorsements in standing out among candidates.

Letters of Recommendation: Do They Make a Difference?

In the ever-evolving landscape of college admission, students often wonder which components of their application hold the most weight. Essays, test scores, and interviews are common focal points, but what about letters of recommendation? Once considered a pivotal aspect of the admission process, do they still carry the same influence?

In this post, we explore the true impact of letters of recommendation in the undergraduate and graduate application process and provide insights on making the most of this critical piece of your application.

graduate school commencement

Graduate School: The Career Path You Might Overlook

Deciding to pursue graduate school is a pivotal choice that can profoundly shape your future. As more students turn to advanced education to gain a competitive edge, the question arises: Is it the right path for you? This guide explores the lasting impact graduate school can have on your career and personal growth, helping you weigh the benefits and key factors before making this life-changing decision.

Leslie Alhakim ’24SJC, a graduate student and previous ozanam scholar at St. John’s University, Queens, NY

Exploring Social Service through St. John's Ozanam Scholars Program: Student Q&A

In this Q&A, we explore Leslie Alhakim ’24SJC’s transformative experience in the Ozanam Scholars program at St. John’s University’s Queens, NY, campus, where she pursued a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is now navigating a master’s degree in data science. Leslie shares insights from impactful service-learning projects, immersive study abroad trips, and how the program has shaped her academic and career path.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Out of State College Student Mailing Their Absentee Ballot for the upcoming Presidential Election

Importance of Voting in 2024: Why It Should Top Your College To-Do List

Navigating elections as a young adult can feel overwhelming. From staying informed about candidates and policies to managing election-related stress, it can be a lot to handle.

In this guide, we explore the importance of voting and how your voice can shape the future. We discuss the significant challenges students encounter during the election season and provide practical tips to help you stay informed, calm, and prepared when it’s time to vote.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Students handing out clothes at Midnight Run

7 Actionable Steps to Build a Social Service Career

As a college student, there are many opportunities to combine your passion for social services with professional growth. From service-focused clubs to social justice initiatives, universities provide pathways for students to create meaningful change.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
First-year college student navigating burnout

Avoid Burnout in Your First Year of College: Proven Tips

Starting college is an exciting, but challenging, time. Between adjusting to a new environment, keeping up with classes, and trying to build a social life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you’re a first-year student, you’re not alone—many students face burnout as they juggle these new responsibilities. In this blog, we break down the common signs of burnout and share practical strategies to help you stay balanced and thrive during your first year.