NYC Gazette

New and returning students from all Schools and Colleges of St. John’s University gathered on September 9 for the annual Fall Activities Fair, where representatives from more than 100 student organizations showcased their work and mission to those eager to get involved.

From Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math-based clubs (STEM) to those focused on the arts, sports, and philanthropy, a range of interests were highlighted during the fair, which was held on the Great Lawn of the Queens, NY campus.

For new students, the activities fair is one of the first opportunities to see what the University and its vibrant community offer. Among those eager to get involved was Michelle Okoro from Ebonyi, Nigeria, a first-year Computer Science student at The Lesley H. and William L. Collins College of Professional Studies. An international student who made her first visit to the United States in August, Michelle was excited about meeting new people and joining several organizations. The African Students Association, Black Students Association, Women on Wall Street, and Sinai’s Radiant Liturgical Praise Dance Team caught her eye.

“I’d like to work on Wall Street; that’s the goal,” she said. “I had never even been to the US until I decided to come to St. John’s. Now I want to see how involved I can become.”

For returning students, the fair is an opportunity to learn more about organizations they might have heard of but not yet joined.

Isabella Patterson, a junior studying Marketing at The Peter J. Tobin College of Business, is the Music Director of WSJU, St. John’s student-run radio station. Throughout the school year, the station offers members resources needed for careers in broadcast journalism and radio as well as social events such as open mic nights, watch parties, and interviews with personalities in the field.

Isabella sought to recruit new members for on-air and behind-the-scenes roles at the station after several members graduated in May. “This is a place where you can meet new people interested in media,” she said. “Music has been in my blood for a long time.”

Likewise, Chris Young, a junior majoring in Sport Management at Collins College of Professional Studies is President of the 194-member Sport Management Association which promotes career development and other professional opportunities for students eager to enter the sports industry. He said that this year they plan to highlight “the fun side of sports” with Wiffle ball basketball and touch football games on campus.

Members of St. John’s eSports Club were recruiting new members ahead of its first competition against Bowie State University of Maryland this school year. The club has more than doubled in size over three years as gaming has become more popular.

Arianna Guida a junior majoring in Physics said membership in the club is open to all students not just those in technology-related majors.“We have people from several different majors,” Arianna said.“The people you will meet in this club are wonderful.”

Organizations such as UNICEF enable students to embrace St.John’s Vincentian mission.An arm of United Nations UNICEF provides humanitarian aid worldwide.At St.John's members help communities through fundraisers toy drives awareness campaigns volunteer activities,and more.

Monica encouraged all first-year students to get involved.“Say yes to any opportunity that is presented because you never know what you will get from it,” Monica said.“There are so many opportunities here at St.John's so don’t be shy or afraid.”