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

It is a familiar rite of passage at St. John’s University. Shortly after Commencement celebrates the graduation of the latest class, New Student Orientation welcomes a new class of eager young Johnnies ready to make their mark on the institution.

“Orientation is a key part of helping students connect with the University where they’ll spend some of the most formative years of their lives,” said Samuel Baah, Director, Campus Activities and New Student Orientation. “It lays the foundation for their growth into well-rounded, engaged citizens. Through orientation, students are introduced to essential campus services and resources.”

This year, a session called St. John’s 101 was added to allow students to explore the campus and familiarize themselves with key spots. Other sessions cover student success, community development, mental health awareness, and available resources.

Business analytics major Gabriella Macaluso from Staten Island expressed her excitement: “I loved St. John’s the first time I came here... I knew this was my school.” She looks forward to meeting new people in the welcoming environment.

Veronica Niyazov chose St. John’s for its state-of-the-art St. Vincent Health Sciences Center and enjoyed making new friends during orientation. Madison Pineiro also appreciated the welcoming environment.

Michael May, an early childhood education major drawn by St. John’s Division I Dance team, felt moved by his orientation experience: “I already feel like part of the family.”

Teresa Delgado, Ph.D., Dean and Professor at St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, addressed all student orientation sessions as faculty keynote speaker: “You are not alone in this journey... We solve things best together as a community.”

Orientation coordinators share a passion for St. John’s that they convey throughout each day’s activities.

Syeda Hijab Fatima from Karachi found her orientation experience invaluable: “It was one of the best decisions I made because it helped me gain leadership skills.” Inaya-Michelle Charles serves as both an orientation leader and R.I.S.E Network mentor.

Divyani Rani Singh from Nepal fulfilled her aspiration to become an orientation leader as a rising senior: “It’s going to be fun meeting new students.” Mathematics major Justin Ashton from Trinidad honored his student mentor by becoming involved in orientation himself.