February 4, 2026
Despite a three-day, weather-related delay, St. John’s University’s annual Spring Student Activities Fair brought energy and excitement to the Queens, NY, campus on January 29 as students explored new opportunities and discovered ways to enhance their college experience.
Held in Taffner Field House, the fair buzzed with music and movement as students visited tables, met club leaders, and connected with peers in a welcoming environment.
Among the many organizations represented was the St. John’s Badminton Club. Founded in 2021, the club has grown to 300 members, with about 60 students competing weekly.
Piyush Barua, a junior majoring in psychology, serves as the club’s president. He emphasized the accessibility of badminton and the welcoming spirit of the organization.
“The fact that you can pick up a racket for the first time and just start playing makes the sport exciting for people,” Piyush said. “Then, each time you play, you will see improvement. We welcome all skill levels and pair beginners with other beginners and experienced players with other experienced players, so everyone is assured of a competitive match.”
The activities fair also introduced students to newer organizations, including the St. John’s Chess Association. Led by Daniel Augusto, a senior majoring in accounting, the club meets twice a week and has about 15 active members.
Daniel, who has played chess for six years, highlighted what makes the game so compelling. “In chess, you do not play the same game twice; each game is something new,” Daniel said. “Also, for the most part, you are competing against a person, not online. In that sense, it is unique from video games. The game does not receive periodic updates, and there is no development team looking to cash in.”
Although the club is new, it has attracted students who share a passion for strategic thinking and in-person competition. Edward Kwok, a first-year student, inquired about joining.
“I love the idea that chess is simple, but can make you think in really complex terms,” Edward said. “It forces you to think tactically and creatively.”
Another new organization—the Catalyst Club—was busy seeking out female students who are looking to engage more with others in The Peter J. Tobin College of Business. “We want to elevate women at Tobin—to build confidence among female students, broaden their horizons, and expand opportunities for them,” explained Fiona Lakeram, a graduate assistant in Tobin’s marketing department.
The fair also highlighted roles that shape how St. John’s is presented to prospective students. Student Ambassadors Samara Lanza, a senior from Miami, FL, and Amanda Machado, a junior from Astoria, NY, were recruiting new members for one of the Office of Undergraduate Admission’s most significant positions. They emphasized the importance of confidence and authenticity in making a successful ambassador.
“You are the first point of contact for prospective students,” Amanda said. “You need to be self-assured and confident, but mostly just be yourself and tell the story of why you enjoy it here.”
“Whether you are from in-state or out-of-state, you need to be able to tell your story,” Samara added. “Your story could be their story, too, and a key to them choosing to come to St. John’s.”
Student activities fairs are held annually during the fall and spring semesters. Representatives from more than 100 student organizations, ranging from religious and service-based clubs to performing arts, science and technology, and more, shared information with students eager to get involved.
Among the religious organizations was Sinai Radiant Liturgical Dance Ministry, whose motto is “When God Speaks, We Move.”
President Nia Amey, a junior majoring in psychology, explained how dance can enhance spirituality, especially among young adults. “Often in our lives, we do not know how to communicate with words,” Nia said. “But dance can help you communicate the deepest feelings of your heart.”