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.
Headshot of an Senior Actuarial Science St. John's University Alum

Exploring a Career in Actuarial Science: an Expert Q&A

Are you interested in risk assessment, financial forecasting, and strategic decision-making? If so, get ready to explore the fascinating world of actuarial science. In this Q&A, we talk to St. John's University alum Brandon Alcaide,’19C, ’20GSRM. He is a Senior Actuarial Associate at TIAA, a well-known Fortune 100 financial services company providing extensive financial solutions.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
College students discussing majors at St John’s University Campus

How to Choose a College Major: 5 Steps for Success

Are you staring at a long list of college majors and wondering how anyone’s supposed to choose just one? You’re not the only one feeling that way. Picking a major can feel like a huge decision—and while it is important, it’s also something you can approach step by step. 

In this blog post, we’ll break down what a college major is, how it can shape your college experience, and five practical (and low-pressure) steps to help you figure out the right fit for you. 

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
study abroad male student standing behind view of Rome

Why Study Abroad in Rome? Advice from a St. John’s Student

Curious about how studying abroad can transform your college experience? Meet Sullivan D. Padgett, a driven St. John’s University student who recently completed a life-changing semester in Rome. From expanding his academic focus to discovering a newfound passion for international relations, Sullivan’s journey offers invaluable insights for anyone considering studying abroad.

Female, nonprofit leader looking out into the city view

Driving Social Impact: Alumna’s Path to Nonprofit Leader

In this inspiring Q&A, we explore the remarkable professional and academic journey of St. John’s alumna Bobbie L. Brown ’10G. With more than ten years of experience in community development, criminal justice, and education, Ms. Brown is passionate about investing in the principles of social impact to address the needs of under-resourced communities.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
St. John's Watson Fellows

How to Stay Connected to St. Johns After Graduation

Graduating from college is a significant milestone, but it doesn’t mean your connection to alma mater must end. In this blog post, we cover six ways to stay connected —no matter where you are in the country or the world—to help you maintain a solid and meaningful relationship with the St. John’s community long after earning your diploma.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Students in red gowns throwing their black caps in the air after graduating

5 Tips to Prepare for Your Career Postgrad   

Graduating from college is an exciting and bittersweet moment. As you celebrate all the great friendships made and the hard work you put into earning a degree, it’s also time to start an entirely new life chapter. The transition from college to career can feel overwhelming; however, there are many great ways to prepare, even during the last few weeks leading up to graduation. In today’s blog post, we cover five tips to help you be successful as you prepare for your postgrad life.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Three students sitting on couches speaking with professor

7 Tips to Prepare for a New Semester

Time away from exams, class syllabuses, and assignments is much needed. It allows everyone—including the professors—to recharge and recover; however, transitioning from a semester break back to class is not easy. Thrown-off schedules, low energy levels, and poor organizational habits are just a few of the struggles. Luckily, there are many ways of combating the first-week dread to lay the groundwork for a successful semester. Here are seven tips for a productive new semester.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli