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.
Leslie Alhakim ’24SJC, a graduate student and previous ozanam scholar at St. John’s University, Queens, NY

Exploring Social Service through St. John's Ozanam Scholars Program: Student Q&A

In this Q&A, we explore Leslie Alhakim ’24SJC’s transformative experience in the Ozanam Scholars program at St. John’s University’s Queens, NY, campus, where she pursued a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is now navigating a master’s degree in data science. Leslie shares insights from impactful service-learning projects, immersive study abroad trips, and how the program has shaped her academic and career path.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Out of State College Student Mailing Their Absentee Ballot for the upcoming Presidential Election

Importance of Voting in 2024: Why It Should Top Your College To-Do List

Navigating elections as a young adult can feel overwhelming. From staying informed about candidates and policies to managing election-related stress, it can be a lot to handle.

In this guide, we explore the importance of voting and how your voice can shape the future. We discuss the significant challenges students encounter during the election season and provide practical tips to help you stay informed, calm, and prepared when it’s time to vote.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Exterior of Tobin Building

How Long Does it Take to Get an M.B.A.?

One of the key questions you may ask as you explore graduate programs is how long does it take to get an M.B.A.? The answer to this question is: it depends! There are several factors such as the type of program, your academic background, and whether you choose to study full time or part time. You can complete an M.B.A. in as little as 1.5 years or go at your own pace through six semesters.

Student exploring allergen-safe dining options at a campus dining hall

Allergy-Safe College Dining: Life-Changing Tips from a Registered Dietitian

Navigating the dining halls on a college campus can be intimidating for new students, especially those with food allergies. With so many food options available, it can be challenging to know what is “safe” to eat. The number of students with severe food allergies is steadily rising, and many college campuses are doing more than ever to ensure that food-allergic students feel comfortable when choosing meals and snacks.

As the St. John’s campus dietitian, I work closely with food service staff and food-allergic individuals daily to ensure that allergen-friendly options are available and that proper food handling protocols are followed when preparing meals for students with food allergies.

St. Johns University Campus Dietician, Simon Gmuca
Simone Gmuca
A group of diverse student leaders at St. John’s University, smiling and engaged in conversation outdoors on campus, representing various leadership roles such as student government, peer mentors, and student ambassadors.

Stand Out to Employers: 7 College Leadership Positions to Improve Your Résumé

When considering your future career, it’s common to feel overwhelmed by the competitiveness of the job market. Employers want real-world experience, leadership, and problem-solving skills. But how do you acquire those skills while still in college?

A great place to begin is by taking on leadership roles on campus. At St. John’s University, you discover countless opportunities to assume leadership responsibilities, enhance your college experience, improve your résumé, and make it stand out when applying for jobs or internships.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli
Students handing out clothes at Midnight Run

7 Actionable Steps to Build a Social Service Career

As a college student, there are many opportunities to combine your passion for social services with professional growth. From service-focused clubs to social justice initiatives, universities provide pathways for students to create meaningful change.

Young female professional
Toni Critelli