The Johnnies Blog
How to Get into the Cybersecurity Field
Whether you are a career-changer or a recent graduate looking to break into the cybersecurity industry, there are a few key things you can do to succeed.
How to Build Your Personal Brand as a Student or Young Professional
Think personal branding is just for influencers or people with shiny business cards? Not anymore.
Whether in college, working part-time, or still figuring things out, you already have a personal brand. The real question is whether you’re intentionally building it or letting it develop on its own without your input.
As a university career advisor, I’ve worked with dozens of students and young professionals learning to own their voice early. In this post, I break down what personal brand means and give clear, actionable steps to shape your brand with intention.
Adventuring Through Rome: My Week Studying Abroad as a Grad Student
Read how a cybersecurity grad student from St. John’s University in Queens, NY, faced fears, explored Rome, and gained career and life lessons through studying abroad.
How to Advocate for Yourself at Work as a Young Professional
Starting your career is exciting—but it can also be intimidating. As an Assistant Director of Career Services at St. John’s University, I’ve worked with many students and young professionals navigating this transition. One of the most important skills you can build early on? Self-advocacy.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through what it means to advocate for yourself, why it’s essential for your growth, and practical tips to help you go from overlooked to empowered—without losing your authenticity.
Building a Personal Brand Through Campus Leadership and Passion Projects
Read how Matthew de Prado ’25CCPS turned creativity and campus leadership at St. John’s into a powerful personal brand—and how you can, too.
Level Up: 5 Free Certifications to Boost Your Graduate Résumé in 2025
As the Class of 2025 enters a dynamic and evolving job market, standing out is more important than ever. While your degree lays a strong foundation, additional certifications can signal your commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability.
Virtual Interviews and AI Recruiting: What Graduates Need to Know About the 2025 Job Market
The job market is changing fast—and if you’re a current or future college student planning your next move, staying informed can give you a real edge.
How Getting Involved in Campus Life Made Me Career-Ready: A Q&A with Sophia Feeney
In this Q&A, Sophia reflects on how her college journey has helped her grow—and shares advice for students hoping to turn their college years into meaningful career momentum.
Level Up: 6 Networking Tips Every College Student Should Know
Networking is more than just exchanging contact information—it’s about building meaningful relationships that can shape your personal and professional life. Like many students, I once believed networking was only for those nearing graduation—something to worry about later. But I quickly realized that it’s one of the most valuable skills you can develop in college.
In this blog, I share six tips on how to network without feeling “icky” or “sales-y.” While grades and extracurriculars are important, building relationships with peers, professors, and professionals can open doors you never saw coming.
5 Free Digital Apps That Every College Student Should Have
As a senior at St. John’s University, I've found that certain free digital apps have been crucial in helping me stay organized, productive, and connected. Whether they are study tools, productivity applications, or communication platforms, these apps have transformed my academic journey and made college life much easier.
