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.
Work study student working on a computer

How Work-Study Can Launch Your Career: A Student’s Perspective

Have you ever wondered how to gain valuable work experience, earn money, and build connections—all while keeping up with your studies? Work-study programs provide the ideal way to balance these priorities and make the most of your college experience.

My name is Madison Coombs, and I’m a senior at St. John’s University. Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of participating in the University’s work-study program, and it’s been a journey full of growth, challenges, and lessons. In this blog, I share my work-study story—highlighting how it has shaped me as a student and an aspiring public relations (PR) professional.

St. John's University Student
Madison Coombs
Male student working on laptop

Becoming an Adult: How to Handle Real-Life Responsibilities in College

Starting college is a major milestone, marking your official entry into adulthood. You’re not just a student anymore; you’re learning to handle real-life responsibilities while enjoying newfound independence. It’s a thrilling, yet sometimes overwhelming, experience. Balancing your social life, health, and studies can be a challenge, but don’t worry—you’re not alone in figuring this out!

Here’s your guide to thriving on campus as you embrace becoming an adult, balancing health, relationships, and academic success.

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
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
a group of people do yoga on a lawn

10 Mental Health Activities for College Students

Starting college is an exciting and transformative time; it’s crucial to prioritize your mental health to make the most of this opportunity.

As we enter National Suicide Prevention Month, it’s a timely reminder of the importance of mental health, especially for college students who often juggle academic, social, and personal pressures. To help you stay healthy, happy, and productive throughout your college journey, we’ve compiled a list of 10 mental health activities.

St. John's University Student
Madison Coombs
NYC college students exploring the city while utilizing free resources like MetroCards, museum admissions, and public libraries.

Free Resources Every NYC College Student Should Know About

Discover free resources every NYC college student should know about! From free museum admission to complimentary software and fitness facilities, this guide helps students save money while enhancing their academic and social lives in New York City.

Aishwarya Gupta
Students practicing wellneses by excercising at the gym on campus

7 Daily Habits That Fuel College Success

College success is not only about getting good grades; your focus should also be on finding a balance and creating a fulfilling life. Whether you’re an incoming student or a rising senior, incorporating these seven daily habits into your routine can help you succeed in college and beyond.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
St. John's Alumna Nathalie N. Chara

St. John’s Alumna Reflects on Journey of Self-Discovery in College

Your first year in college can be both exciting and daunting, especially if you are far from home. It is also an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Picture yourself discovering a new you in a lively city like New York while forming new connections and exploring different possibilities.

This was the experience of Nathalie N. Chara ’13C, ’14G, a St. John’s University double alumna. In this Q&A, Ms. Chara shares how her journey at St. John’s went beyond the classroom, allowing her to find her interests and make lasting connections.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli