Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

Unbridled enthusiasm fills the summer air on St. John’s University’s Queens, NY, campus during July and August as New Student Orientation is held for incoming students and their families.

The University community—including orientation leaders and coordinators, faculty, administrators, and staff—welcomes new Johnnies with vigor. It is not uncommon to hear loud music that encourages spontaneous dancing or singing, creating an infectious mood.

St. John’s conducts several orientation sessions for incoming freshmen and transfers, providing students and their parents with programs designed to facilitate a seamless transition to college life. Coordinated by the Division of Student Success, various departments across the University collaborate on programming, including the Center for Student Success, University Career Services, the Department of Public Safety, and Campus Ministry.

Sarah Jean Kelly, J.D., Vice President for Student Success and Retention Strategy observed: “I think what’s critical for students and their families is that orientation gives them a sense of who we are as an institution... They have champions in their corner.”

She continued: “Orientation is the first step in paving the way toward student success... It shouldn’t be daunting for them.”

Ms. Kelly spoke highly of the orientation leaders and coordinators who serve as incoming students’ first point of contact: “They are extraordinary... many orientation leaders stay connected to students in their groups long after orientation has ended.”

Teresa Delgado, Ph.D., Dean and Professor of Theology and Religious Studies at St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences served as keynote speaker for all student orientation sessions. Dean Delgado told students that having anxiety about any new experience is normal.

“I had the same feeling when I joined St. John’s,” she recalled. “Two years ago... I worked through those anxieties...”

Dean Delgado shared her personal experience: “It’s a testament to the people... but the love and community that was built at St. John’s is what lifted me up.”

She added: “You’ve got to have your people... You have already taken a courageous step because you’re here.”

Elise L. Faulk ’22C,’24GP Associate Director of New Student Orientation noted programmatic changes this year: “This year we were excited to revamp the single-day sessions… end the day with our Johnny Social.”

She added: “Three things make for the best orientation experience: exciting sessions… We are genuinely excited to meet our new students.”

Karen Moritz Simons Director Office of Parent and Family Relations noted that parents must now let their children take charge: "This summer it’s time to switch those seats..."

She added: "What I really hope is that by the end… there’s an extensive support system here..."

Keira Fleckenstein a Public Relations major from Philadelphia PA loved the exuberant experience: "I see a lot of smiles…”

Valley Stream NY native Adrian Rodriguez currently undecided on a major said: "I love the games we’ve played…”

Christian Diaz a Cybersecurity Systems major from New Hyde Park NY said: "The orientation leaders are great…”

Orientation Leader Antwon Colin rising senior Criminal Justice major said he joined due to his passion for helping others.

“One of the things that has been made clear to me,” Ms Kelly explained,“is how many people we have who are deeply committed…”