What's St. John's University in New York like for undergrads?

I'm looking into applying to St. John's University in New York and would love to hear from current or former students about their experiences. What's the campus life like, and how are the academics? Any insights would be super helpful!

St. John's University is known for its strong sense of community and for the wide range of opportunities it offers students. The academic scene is flexible, with a plethora of majors and minors to take on, and a strong emphasis on internships and real-world experiences in various fields. It's particularly known for its strong programs in pharmacy, business, criminal justice, as well as its law school. The faculty are reported to be very dedicated, with many bringing professional experience into the classroom.

In terms of student life, the campus is generally bustling with activity. There are over 180 student clubs and organizations to choose from, spanning an array of interests and causes. There is also a big emphasis on service and giving back to the community, reflecting the university's Vincentian values. Many students participate in service trips and projects both locally and abroad.

NYC also plays a big role in the undergraduate experience at St. John's. Given its location, there are numerous opportunities to take advantage of, from internships and job shadowing experiences to museums and cultural events.

The athletics scene is quite lively. SJU is a Division 1 school and is particularly well-known for its basketball team. The teams' games draw a lot of students and generate a lot of school spirit.

On the residence life front, there are multiple residence halls and townhouses for students to live in. Students are generally satisfied with the facilities and enjoy the sense of community.

That said, like any university, it comes with its own challenges as well, such as larger class sizes in lower-level courses and navigating the bustling city life.

However, many students find that the pros easily outweigh these cons, with the compelling combination of quality academics, diverse student life, and proximity to NYC.