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.
Future college students looking at university websites

What to Look for on a College Website: Nine Things to Check

A college website can tell you a lot more than how much tuition costs or when an application is due.

You can meet the professors you could learn from, discover research happening on campus, find scholarships you may be eligible for, explore internships and other hands-on opportunities, and see how current students are turning their college experiences into opportunities for the future.

As you research your college options, here are nine places on a university website worth clicking into.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Student creating a brag sheet

College Brag Sheet: What It Is and What to Include (with Examples)

You have asked your teacher, counselor, or another mentor to write you a letter of recommendation. But, before they can start writing, they may ask you for something you have probably never heard of: a brag sheet.

Despite the name, a brag sheet is not about showing off. It is your opportunity to share the experiences, accomplishments, goals, and qualities that make you who you are.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
St. John's University Students

Feeling Behind on College Applications? 6 Things to Do

If your social media feed has suddenly become filled with classmates talking about college essays, campus visits, or where they’re applying, it can be easy to feel like everyone is ahead of you.
You may be wondering where to start or how much you need to accomplish before application deadlines begin to arrive.

Here are six things to do if you’re feeling behind on college applications.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Family weekend at st johns

What Parents Should Look for During a College Visit: a Guide to Supporting Your Student

Visiting college campuses is an exciting milestone for students and their families. It is an opportunity to see beyond brochures and websites and get a feel for what everyday college life might look like.

As a parent, do not feel the need to ask every question. Instead, think of yourself as an observer. From campus safety and student support to the overall atmosphere, in this blog post we explore what to look for during a college visit and how to help determine whether a college feels like the right fit.

Student discussing career opportunties as undecided majors

What is an Undecided Major?

Many incoming college students feel pressure to know exactly what they want to study or which career path to pursue. But starting college without everything figured out is far more common than many students realize.

In this blog, you learn what it means to begin college as an undecided student, why it can actually be beneficial, and how to make the most of your first year while exploring different possibilities.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Students talking to a professor in The Peter J. Tobin College of Business building on St. John’s University campus

Choosing a College in New York City: What Students Should Know

New York City (NYC) is fast-paced, diverse, and constantly evolving. It can feel energizing and, at times, overwhelming. That mix is part of what shapes many students in powerful ways. Living and studying here challenges you to grow, adapt, and engage with perspectives you may not encounter anywhere else.

Whether you’re from a small town, a suburb, or another major city, this environment truly has something to offer. As you navigate your final college decision, here are a few pieces of advice to consider if New York City is on your top places to to call home for your academic journey. 

Young female professional
Toni Critelli