The Johnnies Blog

What it Means to be a Nontraditional Student and How to Succeed
College isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. And today, more students than ever are taking paths that don’t fit the old, traditional mold. You might be returning after time away, balancing a full-time job or family responsibilities, transferring from another school, or finally deciding it’s your moment to pursue the degree you’ve always wanted.
In this blog, we explore what it actually means to be a nontraditional student, the strengths you already bring to the classroom, and the flexible options that can help you earn a degree on a timeline that works for your life.

You’re Not Alone: Support for First-Generation Students at St. John’s
Ulises Garcia Jr., Assistant Director of First-Year Mentoring Programs at St. John’s University, offers a message of encouragement and belonging to every first-generation student taking this transformative first step.

First-Gen and Fearless: Miguel’s Journey at St. John’s University
From Brooklyn, NY, to leadership success—how one first-generation student turned a challenge into a calling.

Breaking Barriers: A First-Generation College Student’s Story
My name is Teodita, pronounced “tea-oh-dye-tuh.” I once felt my name was a burden, as it often led to teasing from peers and teacher mispronunciations. However, my name embodies my identity. I am half Guatemalan and half Dominican, and both cultures have profoundly influenced who I am as a first-generation college student.
The First-Generation Student Advantage: What Sets You Apart?
What does being the first in your family to attend college mean? For many, it’s about breaking barriers and stepping into new opportunities. First-generation college students, especially those studying outside of their home country, bring unique strengths and perspectives that make their journeys one of a kind.
In this blog, we explore what it means to be a first-generation college student and hear directly from those leading the way, sharing their experiences and the advantages they’ve discovered.
LGBTQIA+ Student Support: How St. John’s University Leads the Way
As an LGBTQIA+ student, choosing a college or university that truly supports and celebrates you can transform your experience. St. John’s University is committed to creating a campus where you feel safe, valued, and empowered. Here, you find a community that genuinely embraces diversity with a strong dedication to fostering personal growth and academic success.
In this blog, you explore the resources and initiatives at St. John’s that make it a leader in LGBTQIA+ support. Plus, you hear directly from students and faculty involved in making campus life inclusive and supportive.
