The Johnnies Blog
The First-Generation Student Advantage: What Sets You Apart?
What does being the first in your family to attend college mean? For many, it’s about breaking barriers and stepping into new opportunities. First-generation college students, especially those studying outside of their home country, bring unique strengths and perspectives that make their journeys one of a kind.
In this blog, we explore what it means to be a first-generation college student and hear directly from those leading the way, sharing their experiences and the advantages they’ve discovered.
Six Reasons Why International Students Love Studying in the USA
In the 2023–24 academic year, more than one million international students chose the United States of America (USA) as their destination for higher education. What draws them to the USA? Here are six compelling reasons why studying in America could be the transformative experience for which you’ve been searching!
How Work-Study Can Launch Your Career: A Student’s Perspective
Have you ever wondered how to gain valuable work experience, earn money, and build connections—all while keeping up with your studies? Work-study programs provide the ideal way to balance these priorities and make the most of your college experience.
My name is Madison Coombs, and I’m a senior at St. John’s University. Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of participating in the University’s work-study program, and it’s been a journey full of growth, challenges, and lessons. In this blog, I share my work-study story—highlighting how it has shaped me as a student and an aspiring public relations (PR) professional.
7 Scholarship Application Mistakes to Avoid: Fund Your Education in 2025
Scholarships are an essential way to help fund your education, but with many students competing for the same opportunities, even small mistakes can hurt your chances of success. Whether you’re applying for the first time or you’ve already navigated the process, knowing what common mistakes to avoid can significantly improve the quality of your application and increase your chances of receiving a scholarship.
In this guide, we identify common mistakes in scholarship applications and provide expert advice from the undergraduate admission leadership at St. John’s University to help you submit the strongest application possible.
How to Build an Exceptional LinkedIn Profile: Top Tips for Students
Building your digital branding strategy as a college student is essential for success in today’s professional world. A strong online presence opens doors to internships, alumni connections, and future career opportunities. With platforms like LinkedIn, you can position yourself as a standout candidate even before graduating.
This guide provides insights on building a solid digital brand that converts. It includes examples from St. John’s University students and faculty who have crafted exceptional LinkedIn profiles.
How to Write a Personal Essay that Moves Admissions
Learn how to write a compelling personal essay with guidance from St. John’s University, Queens, NY. Discover tips, examples, and ideas to make your college application stand out.
Maintaining a Plant-Based Diet on Campus: Tips from a Registered Dietitian
Plant-based diets are popular on college campuses for their health and environmental benefits. But sticking to a plant-based diet while living on campus can be tricky, with limited kitchen access, storage space, and budget concerns. Here, I’ll share simple, realistic tips for thriving on a plant-based diet while living in a residence room.
Test-Optional: What This Means for College Admissions
Discover the reasons behind the shift to test-optional admissions from the experts at St. John's, and see how this change is influencing the college application process for all students.
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.
Becoming an Adult: How to Handle Real-Life Responsibilities in College
Starting college is a major milestone, marking your official entry into adulthood. You’re not just a student anymore; you’re learning to handle real-life responsibilities while enjoying newfound independence. It’s a thrilling, yet sometimes overwhelming, experience. Balancing your social life, health, and studies can be a challenge, but don’t worry—you’re not alone in figuring this out!
Here’s your guide to thriving on campus as you embrace becoming an adult, balancing health, relationships, and academic success.