The Johnnies Blog

Welcome to Johnnies Blog—your essential guide to college. From making friends and navigating New York City, to building a career-ready degree, our student stories and expert advice bring the college experience to life. Whether you’re exploring majors, planning to apply, or seeking support for a balanced and purposeful college journey, we’re here to inform, inspire, and connect you every step of the way.
St. John's Career Services Adviser, Nikki Peretti

How to Advocate for Yourself at Work as a Young Professional

Starting your career is exciting—but it can also be intimidating. As an Assistant Director of Career Services at St. John’s University, I’ve worked with many students and young professionals navigating this transition. One of the most important skills you can build early on? Self-advocacy.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through what it means to advocate for yourself, why it’s essential for your growth, and practical tips to help you go from overlooked to empowered—without losing your authenticity.

Nikki Pebbles-Perretti Assistant Director, Career Advising | St. John's College & School of Education
Nikki Pebbles-Perretti
St. John's University student in a white lab coat, participating in research

Undergraduate Research: Why You Should Get Involved

You don’t have to wait until graduate school to start your research journey. Undergraduate research offers you the opportunity to explore the subjects that inspire you; work alongside faculty who are experts in their fields; and apply what you’re learning in meaningful, real-world ways.

In this blog, you learn more about what undergraduate research is, what it looks like in practice, and how it can shape your college journey.

Cyber Lab

10 Must-Have Skills for Cyber and Information Security Careers

Cyber and information security job requirements can vary based on the position, field, or focus of work. Yet, there are 10 key essential skills that will help you be successful in any job you choose as a cyber and information security professional.

Girl typing on her laptop

How to Land Strong College Recommendation Letters

When it comes to applying to college, letters of recommendation can play a surprisingly significant role—especially if you apply test-optional or want to highlight your personal growth. But how do you choose the right recommender, and what makes a letter truly stand out?

Young female professional
Toni Critelli