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

St. John’s University is enhancing its study-abroad programs with the Cultural Mentorship Program (CMP), designed to help students adapt and thrive in new cultural environments. The CMP, offered by the Office of International Education, provides a structured framework that encourages students to reflect and grow as they engage with different cultures.

Gianna Ferriso, a third-year student at The School of Education, shared her experience: “St. John’s Study Abroad provided me with a unique experience that many students at other universities do not have.” She noted how the program allowed her personal and academic growth during her semester in Rome.

The CMP begins on the Queens, NY campus before departure and continues abroad. It focuses on intercultural communication skills, an ethnorelative mindset, diversity awareness, and understanding Catholic and Vincentian traditions. Orientation sessions are followed by group meetings throughout the semester at St. John’s locations in Rome, Paris, and Limerick.

Bianca Sylvain from the Office of Outbound Exchange Programs explained that CMP offers "tailored support" for students entering new cultural spaces. She added that it encourages deeper engagement with host cultures while fostering personal and academic development.

Emily Blickhahn, another student involved with the program as a Global Ambassador, emphasized its role in easing cultural shock for students studying abroad: “It can feel intimidating to approach an abroad experience,” she said.

St. John’s is recognized for its strong international engagement; about 40 percent of undergraduates participate in study-abroad programs ranging from short-term to full semesters. The university also hosts over 700 international students from nearly 100 countries each year.