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.
Group of St. John's Students practicing their faith through service

Embracing Faith through Service: Q&A with Elvira Garcia ’20Ed

St. John’s University alumna Elvira Garcia ’20Ed has successfully integrated faith and service into her life and shared her extraordinary journey with us to commemorate Founder’s Week, an annual event honoring the University’s Vincentian and Catholic traditions.

St. John's University Student

Antonio's Inspiring Path of Campus Involvement

At St. John’s University, students’ journeys are shaped by their academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, and personal growth. One such student is Antonio Mosby, a lively and active junior earning a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Marketing. He is currently a Student Coordinator in the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA), which focuses on cultivating inclusivity and cultural understanding on campus.

St. John's University student supporint diversity, equity and inclusion

Building Cultural Awareness at St. John’s: Basmalla Hussein’s Story

At a time when promoting and embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion is crucial, Basmalla Hussein, a committed and passionate third-year Muslim student at St. John’s University, has taken charge of creating a positive impact. Drawing upon her high school experiences and a desire to contribute to a cause larger than herself, Basmalla shares her journey in this inspiring Q&A session.

Times Square, Manhattan in New York City

Fun and Affordable Things to Do in NYC for College Students

New York City (NYC) is renowned for its excitement, diversity, and endless possibilities. But it can also be a costly city to visit—especially for college students on a budget. This blog post explores the best free and affordable things to do as college students to enjoy New York City. Whether you seek city culture, scenic views, or thrilling adventures, there’s something on this list for everyone.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Maciek Nowak, Ph.D.,

Q&A with Maciek Nowak, Ph.D.

Dean of The Peter J. Tobin College of Business and the Joseph H. and Maria C. Schwartz Distinguished Chair at St. John's University.

Maj. Gen. Joseph A. McNeil, Bill Freeman and Joseph McNeil Jr.

My Grandfather, One-Quarter of the Greensboro Four

On February 1, 1960, four African American first-year students at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (N.C. A&T) courageously took seats at a “White only” F.W. Woolworth’s lunch counter in Greensboro, NC. This seemingly small act of defiance in the South sparked similar protests for racial equality and civil disobedience across the United States.

Kimimila
Kimimila wi McNeil, Class of 2025
Standing portrait of student on campus

Student Perspective: Lessons I’ve Learned as an Orientation Leader

For business Management major Joel G. Stephen, choosing to become a campus Orientation Leader was the perfect fit. In today’s Q&A, Joel shares more on the benefit of taking on a campus leadership role and how it continues to positively impact his college journey.

Diverse group of students at activities fair

How to Get the Most from a College Activities Fair

A major perk of attending a university: There are plenty of campus clubs and organizations that provide the opportunity to meet lifelong friends, build a network, and develop transferable skills. 

The potential setback: There are so many campus clubs and organizations from which to choose! 

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Jasmine Batacan

Becoming Jas '21TCB, '22MBA

As a first-year student, Jasmine Batacan arrived at St. John’s University’s Queens, NY, campus ready to welcome any opportunity—and she shows no signs of stopping after recently graduating. As an undergraduate, she was involved in the fashion club Red House and the Executive-in-Residence Program, and served as a Resident Assistant. She has used all of her platforms and creativity to mentor and inspire people to allow their light to shine. Although her story is just getting started, take a moment to read below how she created her own Johnnies experience, and stop by her art page on Instagram, @the.studio.73!

Joben Santos holding graduation cap on steps of Peter J Tobin College of Business

Striving for Excellence as a Servant Student Leader

For Joben Santos ’22TCB, college was his opportunity to give back and be the change he desires in the world. At The Peter J. Tobin College of Business, which he refers to with a playful wink as The “Joben” College of Business, he educated and taught his fellow Johnnies how to serve their communities.