The Johnnies Blog

Welcome to Johnnies Blog—your essential guide to college. From making friends and navigating New York City, to building a career-ready degree, our student stories and expert advice bring the college experience to life. Whether you’re exploring majors, planning to apply, or seeking support for a balanced and purposeful college journey, we’re here to inform, inspire, and connect you every step of the way.
St. john's first-year latinx student smiling next to faculty

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.

St. john's student, Emely Almendariz
Emely Almendariz
St. John's Study Abroad Student Acayla Wray

Self-Discovery Abroad: Insights from a St. John’s Student’s Journey

Have you ever longed for a life-changing experience that challenges you to step outside your comfort zone and reveals a deeper understanding of yourself? Studying abroad has the power to be that pivotal moment of self-discovery.

In this Q&A, we hear from Acayla Wray, a St. John’s University education major and aspiring teacher who spent a life-changing semester in Rome, Italy. Now a senior, she reflects on her study abroad journey, the challenges she faced that forced her to grow, and the unexpected passions she discovered.

Study abroad in Rome student headshot

Global Adventures and Personal Growth: My Unforgettable Journey Studying Abroad

Maxie Hom, a senior at St. John’s University, shares her impactful journey studying abroad through the Global Passport program. She offers firsthand accounts of her global adventures, including personal development, cultural immersion, and the unique opportunities that studying abroad offers.

Study abroad in Rome student headshot
Maxie Hom ’25SJC
A portable container of healthy snack options for college students

Affordable, Healthy Snacks for College Students

Snacking is an essential part of every busy college student’s life. However, overindulging in processed and high-sugar snacks such as potato chips, candy bars, and cookies can have adverse health effects and impact academic performance. Luckily, there are plenty of affordable healthy snacks accessible on and off campus.

This blog post guides you through healthy snacking, including budgeting, nutrition, and snack ideas.

St. Johns University Campus Dietician, Simon Gmuca
Simone Gmuca
Incoming St. John's Students exploring the dining options

How to Eat Healthy in College: Nutrition Tips and Dining Options

College life brings newfound freedoms, including choosing your meals. With diverse dining options on campuses and all-you-care-to-eat dining halls, maintaining a healthy diet can be challenging.

This blog post covers how to eat healthy in college with nutrition tips, meal-prep ideas, and strategies for navigating campus dining halls.

St. Johns University Campus Dietician, Simon Gmuca
Simone Gmuca
St. John's Universtiy Red Sports Fans Cheering in a crowd

How to Show Your St. John’s Pride—No Matter Where You Are!

Are you a proud member of the St. John’s University community? Whether you’re an alum, a current student, or simply a fan of the Red Storm, showing your St. John’s pride doesn’t have to be limited to campus grounds. There are countless ways to display your love for St. John’s, no matter where life takes you.

From sporting the iconic red and white colors to participating in alumni events, here are several creative ways to showcase your St. John’s University pride.

St. Johns Unviersity Students walking on the Queens, New York campus

College Winter Wellness: Nine Simple Tips for Staying Healthy

Winter can be challenging for college students, especially when trying to maintain good health. With the cold weather, shorter days, and more time spent indoors, it is common to feel ill or run down. This blog post explores nine winter wellness tips to help you stay healthy and feel your best. Whether it’s getting outside for fresh air, staying active, or eating healthy, they will help you stay on top of your game and achieve your academic goals.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
St. John's Student

How a Campus Club Transformed One Student's College Journey

Discover the transformative power of campus involvement on your college journey. In this blog post, we hear from Madison Coombs, who rose from Public Relations Chair to President of Red House—a vibrant student organization celebrating over 16 years at St. John's University.