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.
Girl typing on her laptop

How to Land Strong College Recommendation Letters

When it comes to applying to college, letters of recommendation can play a surprisingly significant role—especially if you apply test-optional or want to highlight your personal growth. But how do you choose the right recommender, and what makes a letter truly stand out?

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Students walking on the St. John's University campus

5 Nutrition Tips for Incoming College Students

You have committed to your dream school—and now summer break is almost here. While it’s tempting to fully relax after your senior year of high school, this season is also the perfect time to start laying the groundwork for a healthier, more energized college experience.

Here are five easy healthy nutrition habits you can build to hit the ground running when your first semester begins.

St. Johns University Campus Dietician, Simon Gmuca
Simone Gmuca
A student looking at options for Majors, Minors and Concentrations

A Guide to Majors, Double Majors, Minors, and Concentrations 

College isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey—and your degree doesn’t have to be either. From combining two areas of study to adding specialized skills, there are several ways to shape an academic path that reflects who you are and where you want to go.  

In this guide, we explore the difference between a major, double major, minor, and concentration; what each path offers; and how to build a degree that’s truly your own.