The Johnnies Blog

Impactful Extracurricular Activities to Add to College Applications
Wondering how to make your college application stand out? Your high school extracurriculars might be the key to catching an admission officer’s attention and securing that acceptance letter.

How to Set Academic Goals: 4 Steps for Early College Success
Entering college is an exciting chapter filled with possibilities—but without a clear plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Setting academic goals can transform your experience from simply getting by to achieving extraordinary success.
This guide helps you master academic goals, stay focused, and unlock your full potential in your first year and beyond.

How to Stand Out in College Applications and Impress Admissions Officers
When it comes to college applications, there’s a common myth the more extracurricular activities you list, the better. Maybe you’ve heard you need to be in every club, volunteer at every opportunity, and take on as many leadership roles as possible to impress admissions officers. But here’s the truth: colleges don’t want to see a long list of random activities—they want to see meaningful commitment.

Pre-College Preparation: 6 Proven Activities for Academic and Mental Readiness
Are you counting down the days until you begin your college journey? As a high school senior, you are likely experiencing a mix of excitement and uncertainty about what lies ahead. Transitioning from high school to college is a significant milestone, and making the most of your remaining time before your first year of college can set you up for success academically and mentally.

How Changing Majors Transformed My College Experience
Declaring a major can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure of your choice. Like many students, I selected a major without certainty and hit a few bumps. By my second year, I decided to change my major, which put me on the right track.
If you’re considering changing majors, don’t worry! With the right guidance, it’s easier than you think. Now, as a St. John’s University senior, I share how I successfully made the change and the campus resources that helped me.

What I Wish I Knew before Attending College out of State: Tips for a Smooth Transition
Explore essential tips for a smooth transition to out-of-state college life, from managing costs to building friendships and overcoming homesickness.

Letters of Recommendation: Do They Make a Difference?
In the ever-evolving landscape of college admission, students often wonder which components of their application hold the most weight. Essays, test scores, and interviews are common focal points, but what about letters of recommendation? Once considered a pivotal aspect of the admission process, do they still carry the same influence?
In this post, we explore the true impact of letters of recommendation in the undergraduate and graduate application process and provide insights on making the most of this critical piece of your application.

How Early Action Applications Can Help You Get into College: What You Need to Know
Does applying early to college really help? Discover how Early Action can give you an edge in the admission process and help you make college plans sooner.

What Makes St. John’s University in Queens, NY, Unmissable
St. John’s University is renowned for its diverse academic programs, distinguished faculty, and lively campus environment. Whether you are a prospective student or just want to learn more, this guide provides a detailed look at several factors that make St. John’s an unmissable choice.

Tips for Getting Accepted into College: Dispelling Common Myths
Applying to college can be a daunting task, especially with so many myths about college and misconceptions surrounding the process. Whether you’re anxious about choosing a major, affording tuition, fitting into a religious campus, or meeting academic requirements, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Here are some college application tips that dispel common myths and provide clear, actionable advice.