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.
College students sitting in front of a school building

Do I Belong Here? Imposter Syndrome in College and Beyond

College is often described as a time of growth and discovery, but for many, it is also a time of quiet self-doubt. You may be doing well academically, staying involved, and meeting expectations, yet still wonder whether you truly belong.

That experience has a name: imposter syndrome. And while it can feel deeply personal, it is one of the most common challenges students face.

St. John's students on campus

From High School to College Life: What Really Changes (and How to Thrive) 

Do you wonder what really changes when you leave high school behind and start college life? The quick answer: a lot—but that’s not a bad thing. From managing your own schedule to handling bigger classes and more independence, the transition can feel like a major shift. It’s also an excellent opportunity to grow, try new interests, and carve out your own path. 

Thomas Rudzewick, President and CEO of Maspeth Federal Savings

5 Financial Literacy Tips Every Young Professional Should Start Now

Landing your first job. Paying rent. Tackling student loans. Whether you’re wrapping up college or stepping into your first full-time role, one thing becomes clear fast: every dollar counts.

When you understand how to protect your money, manage debt, and plan for the future, you give yourself more freedom, not less.

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
St. John's Alum Headshot, Duane Shippey

Building a Finance Career: Lessons from a VP at BNY Mellon

Are you interested in a finance career where you can help people achieve financial empowerment? In this Q&A session, you get to know Duane Shippey '97A, a St. John’s University alumnus. As the current Vice President (VP) of Client Services at BNY Mellon, Mr. Shippey shares his journey of building a career in finance, the skills he has developed, and the challenges he has faced and overcome.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
St. John's Alumna and Mental Health Advocate, Priscilla Agyeman

Prioritizing Your Mental Health in the Workplace: Q&A with Priscilla O. Agyeman ’16C

Balancing mental health and work responsibilities can be a challenging task. However, it is crucial to prioritize your well-being and seek support when needed to achieve personal growth and career success.
 
During this Q&A session, we speak with Priscilla O. Agyeman ’16C, a St. John’s alumna and mental health advocate. She shares her personal experience with mental health issues and the strategies she uses to navigate mental health in the workplace successfully. She also discusses the mental health resources she offers through her company, Saddie Baddies®.
 

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Headshot of St. John's Alumna and founder of Fin Lit Kids

Financial Literacy Tips and Lessons from Ebony Beckford ’03CPS

Are you a college student or a recent graduate who wants to learn how to build a solid financial foundation for your future? In this Q&A session, we speak with Ebony (Rentas) Beckford ’03CPS, a St. John’s alumna who is an author, entrepreneur, and financial literacy advocate. Ms. Beckford shares her personal story of overcoming financial challenges during and after graduation. She also provides simple steps that anyone can take to develop a healthy relationship with money and how these practices are applied in her company, Fin Lit Kids.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli