August 3, 2026
Each summer, New Student Orientation marks a familiar rite of passage at St. John’s University, welcoming a new class of eager Johnnies ready to bring their talents, perspectives, and energy to the University community.
Sessions were held throughout July for students and their parents to explore student success, community development, mental health awareness, and the vast array of resources available to incoming students.
Fahmi Monsour came to St. John’s because of its highly rated pharmacy program. “I work in a local pharmacy and knew the reputation of the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Everything about today has been great—the people, the campus, the facilities. It’s been a great welcome.” Fahmi added that he hopes to try out for the Men’s Soccer team. “We’ll see how it goes,” he said, smiling.
Cyber security systems major Jace Lewis came to St. John’s because he wanted to stay close to home while experiencing the University’s proximity to New York City. “I know a lot of alumni, so I knew what St. John’s has to offer. I can totally see myself here.”
“I’m having a great time,” said Harry Horan, a sport management major. “I’ve made a lot of new friends; my orientation leader is great. I think I’m in for a great four years,” he enthused.
Rayana Guillermo, a fine arts major, explained that her aunt attended St. John’s, and she “wanted to continue the family legacy.” She added, “I toured the campus virtually and in person and could really see myself here. I look forward to diving into the fine arts program.”
“As a parent of two recent college graduates myself, I understand that the transition to college can be one of the most challenging parts of the journey for both students and their families,” stressed Michele Chung, Interim Director, Parent and Family Connections, Division of Student Affairs.
“At St. John’s, we view parents and families as valued partners in student success. While students are gaining independence, we want families to know they are not making this journey alone. Orientation is not about letting go, but more about embracing growth and discovering how families can continue to support and encourage their students as they grow into capable, confident adults.”
She added, “I believe a successful family orientation isn’t measured by how much information parents receive, but instead by how they feel when they leave—confident that their student is supported, connected to our campus community, and reassured that they still play an important role in their student’s success.”
Teresa Delgado, Ph.D., Dean and Professor, Theology and Religious Studies, St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, was the faculty keynote speaker for all student orientation sessions. “All of us are on a path of discovery,” she stressed. “The path you think you want to pursue now may not be the path you ultimately follow. Something may happen in the classroom that sparks your imagination and puts you on a different path.”
She added, “We care about you as a whole person—not just as a student in a classroom or through what you do outside it. That is what a Catholic and Vincentian university does.”
Elise L. Faulk ’22SJC, ’24M.P.H., Associate Director of New Student Orientation, hopes that new Johnnies feel connected. “I hope that they come here and meet somebody whom they can recognize when they arrive on their first day or know a department they can use as a resource. I hope they feel a little less nervous. They’re getting a preview today of their St. John’s experience.”
Orientation coordinators and leaders, Ms. Faulk stressed, are the glue that holds the experience together. “Their energy is infectious,” she said. They bring a deep affection for St. John’s to every part of the day. Although these students are drawn to the program for different reasons, they are united by a strong commitment to the University and its community.
Early childhood education major Amaya Busigo, a sophomore and first year orientation leader, explained, “I really enjoyed my orientation last year. I met so many new people and got that taste for what college was like. I wanted to share that with the incoming students.”
Geovanni Flores, a senior biology major, has been involved in student leadership since high school. “I knew this was somewhere I could apply those leadership skills and the lessons I’ve been teaching other students, and show them how to acclimate to University life and take this next big step into their future.”
“When I came for my orientation, I got really close with my orientation leaders, and it inspired me to do the same—to be that helping hand or that first friend for another incoming student,” sophomore communication studies major Emily Desir noted.