Choosing the right university is a pivotal decision in one’s educational journey, one that shapes future careers and personal growth. St. John's University, with its rich history, broad array of academic offerings, and vibrant campus life, stands out as a leading choice for students across the globe. Known for its commitment to excellence, St. John's not only offers a dynamic and inclusive learning environment but also fosters the development of well-rounded individuals through its diverse programs and community involvement. Its unique blend of tradition and innovation makes it an ideal setting for students aiming to thrive in both their professional and personal lives.
This article delves into the core aspects that make St. John's University a beacon of higher education. From the significant milestones that mark its history, including the evolution from St. John Fisher University to its current prominence alongside York St John University and the College of St. Benedict, to its extensive academic offerings that cover a wide spectrum of disciplines. We will also explore the vibrant campus life that is animated by the Red Storm spirit and the successes of St. John's football, among other athletics. Furthermore, the piece will highlight stories of successful alumni who attribute their achievements to the foundations laid at St. John's, offering a glimpse into the university’s impact beyond academia. Finally, we will provide guidance on the application process, making the journey to becoming a part of the St. John's University community as smooth as possible.
History of Saint John's University
Founding Year and Background
Saint John's University was established in 1870 by the Vincentian Fathers of the Roman Catholic Church, responding to an invitation by the first Bishop of Brooklyn, John Loughlin. The university was initially named the College of St. John the Baptist and was located at 75 Lewis Avenue in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn. The cornerstone for the university's first building, St. John's College Hall, was laid on July 25, 1869, and the institution officially opened for educational purposes on September 5, 1870 9 10.
Key Historical Milestones
Significant developments in the history of Saint John's University include the founding of the School of Law in 1925 and the university's elevation to university status in 1933. The transition of the university from Brooklyn to Queens began in 1955, with the purchase of the Hillcrest Golf Club's land in 1936, which later became the site for the new campus. The groundbreaking ceremony for the Queens campus occurred on February 11, 1954, using the same shovel that broke ground on the original campus in 1868 15 16.
The university has progressively expanded, establishing additional campuses in Staten Island (1971), Rome (1995), Oakdale (1999), Manhattan (2001), and Paris (2008). The last of the university's schools relocated from the Downtown Brooklyn campus to Queens in 1972, marking the end of the university's presence in Downtown Brooklyn 9.
Throughout its history, Saint John's University has undergone several significant name changes and expansions in its academic offerings. These include the renaming of the School of Pedagogy to admit both men and women, the transformation of the School of Accounting, Commerce, and Finance into the School of Commerce, and later into the College of Business Administration. The School of Pharmacy was renamed the College of Pharmacy and subsequently the College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions. Additionally, the School of General Studies was renamed the College of General Studies, and St. Vincent's College became the College of Professional Studies 7 8.
Alumni Hall, another notable facility on campus, was renamed Carnesecca Arena to honor a distinguished figure in the university's history 8. This renaming reflects the university's tradition of honoring significant contributors and milestones in its development.
Saint John's University's commitment to the Vincentian values of social justice, charity, and service is evident through its educational programs and community engagement, ensuring that it remains a prominent institution for higher learning in the modern era 11 12.
Academic Offerings
Undergraduate Programs
At St. John's University, students have access to a wide array of undergraduate programs that span across various fields of study. The university offers more than 100 programs, providing students with a diverse selection that caters to their individual academic interests and career aspirations 11. The unique partnership with the College of Saint Benedict allows students to engage in a shared curriculum, enhancing the academic experience with co-ed classes and equal graduation requirements across both campuses 16 17. This integration ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, combining the extensive curriculum of a large university with the personalized attention characteristic of a top liberal arts college 18.
Graduate Programs
The graduate schools at St. John's University boast over 60 advanced degree and professional certificate programs spread across five acclaimed colleges, a School of Law, and a dedicated institute for biotechnology 13. These programs are designed to challenge students and prepare them for leadership roles in their respective fields. Notably, the part-time Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) program at The Peter J. Tobin College of Business has been recognized for its excellence, ranking in the top 100 of US News and World Report's Best Graduate Schools 13. Additionally, the university offers specialized graduate programs in Nursing, Theology, Education, and more, providing students with the skills necessary to excel in a variety of professional environments 12.
Unique Partnerships with College of Saint Benedict
St. John's University and the College of Saint Benedict share a distinctive partnership that enriches the educational offerings available to students. This collaboration allows students to take classes on both campuses, with full access to facilities such as dining centers, athletic complexes, libraries, and more 17. The shared curriculum and resources between these institutions not only enhance the learning environment but also foster a sense of community and collaboration among students. This partnership exemplifies the commitment of both institutions to providing a comprehensive and inclusive educational experience 16 17.
Campus Life
Student Organizations and Clubs
St. John's University boasts a vibrant array of student organizations and clubs, catering to diverse interests and promoting a dynamic campus culture. Students can engage with over 180 organizations, including academic societies like the Actuarial Club, Advertising Club, and the American Chemical Society, cultural associations such as the African Students Association and the Albanian American Culture Club, as well as special interest groups like the eSports and Earth Club 19. These clubs not only foster a sense of community but also enhance students' leadership and teamwork skills, preparing them for professional and personal success.
Fraternities and sororities also play a significant role in campus life, with multiple councils such as the Inter-Fraternity Council and Panhellenic Council providing governance. These include Phi Delta Theta, Sigma Pi, Alpha Sigma Alpha, and Gamma Phi Beta, which contribute to a lively social scene and offer numerous service and leadership opportunities 19.
Housing and Dormitories
St. John's University provides a variety of housing options designed to enrich the college experience. Freshmen may start their journey in traditional or suite-style residence halls, which are integral to fostering a vibrant first-year experience. These halls are closely associated with the Center for Student Success, which organizes unique programs to enhance student life 22.
Upperclassmen have the choice of suite-style or apartment-style living, offering more independence and growth opportunities. These accommodations range from single rooms in suites to townhouse apartments, providing amenities such as in-suite bathrooms, full kitchens, and living areas. All housing options include essential services like streaming cable, utilities, laundry, and Wi-Fi at no additional cost 22.
The housing selection process is meticulously organized to ensure fairness and satisfaction, accommodating various needs, including gender-affirming housing options and facilities with enhanced privacy for transgender and/or non-binary students 24.
Athletics and Recreation
Athletics and recreation are integral to campus life at St. John's University, with the Red Storm teams drawing spirited support from students and alumni alike. The university offers a wide range of intramural sports, club teams, and varsity athletics, ensuring that all students, regardless of their athletic ability, can participate in competitive or recreational activities 25.
The campus boasts excellent facilities such as the Taffner Field House for recreational programming and events, and two fitness trails that provide scenic routes for running and walking. These trails start at the D'Angelo Center and are marked to guide users along their chosen paths 26.
Campus Recreation enhances student life by offering structured sports and fitness programs that not only promote physical wellness but also social and ethical development through team and individual sports 26.
Student Success and Alumni Stories
Notable Alumni Achievements
St. John's University boasts a distinguished alumni network that spans across various fields, highlighting the significant impact of its education. Among the notable alumni are Jermaine Lamarr Cole, an acclaimed rapper and record producer, and Mario Matthew Cuomo, the three-term Governor of New York 28. Metta Sandiford-Artest, formerly known as Ron Artest, represents the university's strong influence in the sports arena, having had a successful NBA career 28. The university's global reach is evident with alumni like George Hu, a celebrated actor and singer based in Taiwan 28. These alumni not only exemplify professional success but also contribute to the rich tapestry of St. John's global community.
Student Research and Internship Opportunities
At St. John's University, students are provided with extensive opportunities to engage in research and internships that enhance their academic and professional growth. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, for instance, offers internships that allow students to gain practical experience in their field of study 32. Undergraduate students can participate in internships for academic credit or choose paid internships, with eligibility starting after completing 60 credits 32. Additionally, the university facilitates international internships in locations like Paris, Limerick, and Rome, providing global exposure and practical experience in governmental and private sectors 32.
The university's commitment to practical learning extends through its Career Services, which offers a variety of programs including resume workshops, interview preparation, and access to the Handshake platform, which lists over 1,000 job opportunities 31. Furthermore, students can participate in Micro-internships through Parker Dewey, which provide short-term, paid professional assignments that are crucial for building experience and networking 31.
By integrating classroom knowledge with real-world application, St. John's University ensures that its students are well-prepared for their future careers and are able to make significant contributions to their fields 31 32.
Applying to Saint John's University
Admission Requirements
St. John's University offers multiple application deadlines such as Early Decision, Early Action, Priority, and Rolling Decision for first-time freshman applicants. All required documents must be received by the selected deadline on the undergraduate admission application 34. Applicants have the option to submit standardized test scores unless they choose the test-optional route. For specific programs like Pharmacy, additional requirements such as a personal essay, resume, and letters of recommendation are necessary 34.
Transfer students benefit from a rolling admissions process, allowing applications to be accepted right up until the start of each term. Along with the application, transfer students must provide college transcripts and other required documents for a timely credit evaluation and admission decision 35.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition at St. John's University (NY) for the academic year is $50,110, which is above the national average. When considering the total cost of attendance, which includes room, board, and other expenses, the amount rises to $70,178. However, the net price after need-based aid averages to $62,699 38.
Students are encouraged to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible for the 2024–25 academic year. Changes have been made to simplify the FAFSA application process starting from the 2024-25 cycle, with the application opening on December 31, 2023 37. St. John's University provides extensive financial aid options, meeting 69% of its students' financial needs, with the average need-based scholarship or grant for first-year students being $7,772 38.
Campus Visits and Tours
Prospective students and families can explore St. John's University through various campus visit options. The university offers self-guided tours where visitors can start at the Welcome Center on the Queens campus, follow standard tour stops, and view corresponding videos on the university's YouTube channel 40.
For a more personalized experience, potential students can schedule in-person visits that include a tour with a current student, class observations, and meetings with admissions counselors 42. These visits provide an invaluable opportunity to experience the campus atmosphere and gain firsthand insights into student life at St. John's University.
Conclusion
Reflecting on the comprehensive journey through St. John's University, from its storied history to the vibrant campus life, extensive academic offerings, and the diverse opportunities for student engagement, it is clear why this institution stands as a beacon for higher education. The experiences detailed, ranging from rigorous academic curricula to the enriching atmosphere of student clubs and athletics, underscore the university's commitment to developing well-rounded individuals. St. John's not only offers a platform for intellectual growth but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among its students, preparing them for success beyond the university's walls.
The essence of St. John's University lies not just in its ability to offer a quality education but in crafting a nurturing environment that values innovation, tradition, and service. As students and alumni continue to shape the world with their accomplishments, the implications of a St. John's education are profound. Future students are encouraged to explore, engage, and embrace the opportunities that St. John's presents, contributing to the legacy of success and community service that defines this prestigious institution. The journey at St. John's does not just prepare one for a career but for a meaningful life that makes a difference in the world.
FAQs
1. What are the reasons to consider St. John's University for higher education?
St. John's University provides a personalized learning experience with a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1. The university is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including lecture capture systems, virtual reality stations, virtual dissection tables, eSports stations, and 3D printing. Students can choose from over 100 majors and programs across a wide range of disciplines.
2. What distinguishes St. John's University from other institutions?
St. John's University stands out due to its combination of world-class academics, distinguished faculty, and comprehensive resources. The university has a storied tradition of excellence and a commitment to service, preparing students to make a positive impact in the world.
3. What is the College Advantage Program at St. John's University?
The College Advantage Program at St. John's University allows high school juniors and seniors to enroll in university courses while still attending high school. This program offers courses at a significantly reduced cost of $325 per course, providing a substantial savings on tuition compared to regular undergraduate rates.
4. For what is St. John's University particularly well-known?
St. John's University is renowned for its strong athletic program, particularly its men's basketball team, which is among the more than 15 intercollegiate teams at the university. Additionally, St. John's offers a diverse array of graduate programs, including a School of Law and School of Education.
References
[1] - https://online.stjohns.edu/about-us/why
[2] - https://www.stjohns.edu/news-media/johnnies-blog/150-reasons-love-st-johns-academic-opportunities
[3] - https://www.stjohns.edu/education-elevates
[4] - https://www.stjohns.edu/who-we-are/history-and-facts
[5] - https://www.stjohns.edu/150th-anniversary/our-history
[6] - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._John%27s_University_(New_York_City)
[7] - https://www.stjohns.edu/who-we-are/history-and-facts
[8] - https://www.stjohns.edu/150th-anniversary/our-history
[9] - https://www.britannica.com/topic/Saint-Johns-University-Jamaica-Queens-New-York
[10] - https://www.stjohns.edu/academics/programs
[11] - https://www.stjohns.edu/admission/undergraduate-admission
[12] - https://www.csbsju.edu/majors