The Johnnies Blog

How AI is Changing the College Search (And How to Use It Effectively)
Learn how to use AI ethically and effectively for your college search with expert guidance from St. John’s University.

What to Do After Campus Visits: The Ultimate Checklist
You’ve walked the pathways of a college campus, peeked into the residence halls, and maybe even grabbed a coffee at campus dining. But once the event ends and the brochures are tucked into your bag, what comes next?
The real work begins after the tour ends. This is your chance to reflect on what you saw, ask better questions, and determine which school feels like the right fit.

What is the Common App—and Should You Use It?
As you start thinking about college applications, the phrase “Common App” is probably already on your radar. But is it a must-have for your application strategy?
In this guide, you will learn about the Common App, how it functions, and whether it provides value for your journey as a future student. You'll also hear from a college admissions office leader on how to create a compelling and memorable application.

College Admission Terms 101: What to Know Before You Apply
Learn the college admission terms every applicant should know, explained by experts at St. John’s University to help you apply with confidence.

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?

Finding the Right College Starts with Asking the Right Questions
Not sure what to ask on a college tour? Use this checklist and tips from experts at St. John’s University to get real answers and find the right fit for you.

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.

College Rankings Are Useful. Campus Culture Is Essential.
Rankings only tell you so much. Campus culture shapes your college experience. Learn how to find your fit and see how St. John’s University in Queens, NY, gets it right.

Why Students Choose St. John’s: Stories in Their Own Words
At St. John’s University, students have access to opportunities that can truly shape their future—think leadership roles, global study-abroad programs, real-world internships, and a campus community that feels like family.
Whether you’re just starting to explore what St. John’s is all about or you’ve recently been accepted and are thinking about what’s next, these five student stories offer a real look at what it’s like to grow here. In their own words, they share what made St. John’s feel like home—and how they’ve taken full advantage of everything it has to offer.

How to Set Academic Goals: 4 Steps for Early College Success
Entering college is an exciting chapter filled with possibilities—but without a clear plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Setting academic goals can transform your experience from simply getting by to achieving extraordinary success.
This guide helps you master academic goals, stay focused, and unlock your full potential in your first year and beyond.
