The Johnnies Blog
Turning Challenges into Change: Crystal’s Story of Student Advocacy
Meet Crystal Anne Dibenedetto, a senior at St. John’s University, who is helping drive meaningful change for students facing food insecurity on campus. Motivated by both her own experiences and the stories shared by classmates, Crystal became a passionate voice in the conversations that helped bring Vincent’s Table, the University’s campus food pantry initiative, to life.
From Commuter to Campus Leader: Building My College Experience at St. John’s University
How I found community, leadership opportunities, internships, and lifelong friendships by getting involved on the St. John's campus and beyond.
Finding Community and Opportunity: Roshni’s Transfer Journey to St. John’s
In this Q&A spotlight, Roshni shares what led her to switch, how she built her community at St. John’s, and the advice she has for other students considering a new path forward.
Leadership with Purpose: How Ava’s College Experience Fueled Her Advocacy
Originally from Bowie, Maryland, Ava Wilson arrived at the St. John’s University Queens, NY, campus eager to dive into the full college experience.
What she didn’t expect was that it would take her from the campus stage to national advocacy platforms, shaping her future as a leader and changemaker.
What Helped Me Succeed as an International Student? A Mentor Who Believed in Me
Starting college is a big step—but doing it in a completely different country? That takes a special kind of courage. When Antonia Cuellar Urrutia ’25C arrived in New York from Santiago, Chile, she was excited, determined, and far outside her comfort zone.
But amid it all, she found something that changed everything: mentorship.
Building a Personal Brand Through Campus Leadership and Passion Projects
Read how Matthew de Prado ’25CCPS turned creativity and campus leadership at St. John’s into a powerful personal brand—and how you can, too.
Empowering Women in Business: Inside the Women on Wall Street Club at St. John’s
Discover how the Women on Wall Street Club at St. John’s University supports aspiring students in business through mentorship, leadership, and networking.
How Getting Involved in Campus Life Made Me Career-Ready: A Q&A with Sophia Feeney
In this Q&A, Sophia reflects on how her college journey has helped her grow—and shares advice for students hoping to turn their college years into meaningful career momentum.