SUNY Oneonta

SUNY Oneonta student Liana Walton, of Clifton Park, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "House of Consignment Internship." Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "During my internship at House of Consignment, I gained hands-on experience in the retail and consignment industry. Under the guidance of owner Kirsty Roefs, I learned about the consigning process, customer service, merchandising, and day-to-day retail operations. I was given creative freedom to design eye-catching seasonal and holiday displays, plan and create social media content, and help manage the sales floor," said Walton, who is majoring in Fashion and Textiles. "During my internship at House of Consignment, I was involved in many aspects of daily retail operations and visual merchandising. I created seasonal displays for holidays and events including St. Patrick's Day, Easter, and other promotions to help attract customers and showcase inventory. I also photographed racks of clothing daily, carefully capturing each garment for the store's website and online shoppers. In addition, I created social media content to promote new arrivals and seasonal pieces, assisted customers, and helped manage and organize the sales floor to maintain an inviting shopping environment. "During my internship at House of Consignment, I learned about the consigning process and how inventory is evaluated, priced, organized, and prepared for sale. I gained hands-on experience in visual merchandising by creating displays that were both visually appealing and effective in attracting customers. I also learned how important social media and online presentation are in the retail industry through photographing clothing and creating promotional content. This experience strengthened my communication, creativity, organization, and customer service skills while giving me a better understanding of the fashion and retail business. "Since completing this internship, I plan to continue developing my skills in the fashion industry through future internships and hands-on experiences. I will continue my education at Fashion Institute of Technology, where I will earn an Associate's degree in Advertising and Marketing Communications through the 3+1 program with SUNY Oneonta. In May 2027, I will graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Fashion Merchandising from SUNY Oneonta as well as an Associate's degree from FIT. After graduation, I hope to begin a professional career in the luxury fashion industry, where I can combine my interests in fashion, marketing, merchandising, and brand development." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

SUNY Oneonta student Hailey Gould, of Farmingdale, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Leatherstocking Quilts Fashion Internships." Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "Interning at Leatherstocking Quilts was a non-traditional path to better understanding the management, merchandising and advertising components of running a small business. Through hands-on experience and supervised projects, my role at Leatherstocking Quilts allowed me to gain insight around the necessary requirements of successful outreach," said Gould, who is majoring in Fashion and Textiles. "This presentation was created by me, Miss Hailey Gould. I devised a comprehensive overview of what services our company provides, company values, loyalty programs and more. This presentation doubled as a packing list for Jeanne. The packing list helped Jeanne to set up an engaging, temporary storefront at the trunk show to promote brand awareness and sales. This detailed outline also provides reminders for upcoming events where (LSQ) Leatherstocking Quilts will be collaborating with other local businesses to host fun events such as denim tote bag making with All American Sweet Spot. "I was re-introduced to organizational fun. Creating this presentation, sectioning the important messages for customers, and preparing a necessary list for all materials gave me a guide and strategy to be used for school, work and everyday life. It's a crucial step to prepare before events to reduce stress and execute an intentional presentation. Without this, presentations and events can be disappointing for the customer and the business. Through preparation, the business can accurately represent themselves instead of leaving it up to fate. "The next project is creating an eye-catching banner for Shop Hop. Shop Hop is a promotional quilting event intended to help local quilt shops gain publicity and generate substantial revenue. The banner is complete. However, finding an object or post to hang the banner has been more challenging. My hope is to have it hanging on a post, not just in the window." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

SUNY Oneonta student Kimmy Catalan, of Stamford, CT, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Leatherstocking Quilts Internship." Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. I interned at Leatherstocking Quilts in Oneonta, where I gained knowledge about traditional quilting and supported the store in their fabric inventory and got the opportunity to engage with textile distributors. This experience gave me a better understanding of fabric sourcing, merchandising, and the importance of maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and customers," said Catalan, who is majoring in Fashion and Textiles. "During my internship at Leatherstocking Quilts, I assisted with organizing and managing fabric inventory, cutting fabric for customers, and creating quilting kits for the store. I also helped change displays and supported the visual presentation of products to create an inviting shopping environment. In addition, I attended and assisted with quilting events alongside Jeanne Turner, where I engaged with customers and the quilting community. Through these experiences, I gained hands-on knowledge in textiles, customer service, merchandising and retail operations. "Through this internship, I learned more about traditional quilting techniques, textile materials, and the overall operations of a fabric and quilting business. I developed stronger customer service and communication skills by assisting customers with fabric cutting and product questions. I also gained experience in merchandising by helping create displays and organizing inventory throughout the store. Additionally, working with quilting kits and distributors helped me better understand fabric sourcing, retail management, and the importance of community engagement within the fashion and textile industry. "Moving forward, I plan to continue expanding my knowledge in fashion and textiles through future internships, projects, and hands-on experiences. This internship strengthened my interest in fabric design, merchandising, and retail operations, which will help me pursue a career in the fashion industry. I also hope to apply the skills I learned at Leatherstocking Quilts to my future goal of creating my own clothing brand and store. Overall, this experience has helped me grow both professionally and creatively." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

SUNY Oneonta student Rodrigo Lopez Zarco, of Brooklyn, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Internship at Leatherstocking Quilts." Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "Throughout my time interning at Leatherstocking Quilts, I had an amazing opportunity to learn and make my very first Quilt for my project," said Lopez Zarco, who is majoring in Fashion and Textiles. "During my internship at Leatherstocking Quilts, I developed valuable experience in both textile production and retail store operations within a professional quilt shop environment. My responsibilities included cutting fabric for customers, preparing quilt kits, operating the cash register, assisting with customer service, stocking merchandise and helping maintain an organized and visually appealing store layout. In addition, I participated in behind-the-scenes production work, including quilt-making projects and daily store management tasks. This internship strengthened my skills in communication, organization, teamwork, and attention to detail while providing hands-on experience in the quilting and textile industry. "During my internship at Leatherstocking Quilts, I gained valuable hands-on experience in both sewing and retail store management within a professional quilt shop environment. Throughout my internship, I developed a strong understanding of fabric measurements and cutting techniques for customers, quilt kits and personal projects, while improving my precision and attention to detail. In addition, I learned important aspects of store management, including organizing inventory, assisting customers with fabric and material selections, maintaining visual store presentation and contributing to a welcoming and efficient shopping experience. Working closely with customers and staff also strengthened my communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills. This internship provided me with practical industry knowledge and helped me grow professionally and creatively within the textile and quilting field. "Looking ahead, I plan to continue expanding my skills in textile design and garment construction by incorporating quilting techniques into wearable fashion and accessories. My long-term goal is to develop my own clothing brand that highlights quilting as a creative and modern form of design while blending craftsmanship with contemporary fashion. In addition, I hope to open my own shop in the future, where I can showcase handmade garments, accessories and quilt-inspired pieces. The knowledge and experience I gained from the owner of Leatherstocking Quilts have provided me with valuable insight into both the creative and business aspects of the industry, which I plan to carry forward in my future career." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

SUNY Oneonta student Emma Hart, of Sound Beach, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Stoneonta Fashion Internship." Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "During my hybrid internship under SUNY Oneonta Alumni Tyler Walsh at a local business called Stoneonta, I was allowed the opportunity to learn the inner workings of the screen printing process in a small retail business setting. I gained experience planning and executing photoshoots, managing the sales floor, and assisting in the creative process of designing new merchandise while working both remotely from home and in-store," said Hart, who is majoring in Fashion and Textiles. "My tasks while working in-store often included assisting customers, managing merchandise on the sales floor, and creating visual merchandising displays. I also learned the screen-printing process and often managed the store alone. Working remotely, I assisted in creating new designs, researching merchandise and social media trends, planning photoshoots, and creating social media content for the brand. "Throughout my time interning at Stoneonta, I developed an understanding of how a small retail business operates both online and in-store, managing a physical retail space and online orders. I learned the processes of screen printing and how products are actually made. Additionally, I learned how to cater to a specific target market in both the design and promotion of merchandise. Overall, this experience strengthened both my creative and organizational skills and gave me a better understanding of the day-to-day processes of a small business. "Since completing this experience, I plan to build on these skills by completing additional internships and adding to my experience in the industry. I also plan on taking my next year of school at the Fashion Institute of Technology, completing an associate's degree in Advertising and Marketing Communications. I will graduate in May of 2027 with a Bachelor's degree from SUNY Oneonta and an Associate's degree from FIT. After my graduation, I plan to enter the industry as a buyer and begin my professional career." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

SUNY Oneonta student Gisselle Rojas De La Luz, of Yonkers, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Gotham City Outpost Internship." Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "As an intern at Gotham City Outpost, I helped promote a local lifestyle boutique through social media, community outreach and customer engagement. This experience has allowed me to strengthen my communication, marketing and creative skills while supporting small business growth in the Oneonta community," said Rojas De La Luz, who is majoring in Fashion and Textiles. "During my internship at Gotham City Outpost, I created social media videos to help promote the store and engage with customers online. I also assisted with community outreach by connecting with local businesses and organizations to help increase awareness of the store. In addition, I helped host in-store events that brought the community together and created a welcoming shopping experience. I also organized and displayed clothing items that were trending and in style to help attract customers and keep the store visually appealing. "Through my internship at Gotham City Outpost, I learned how important creativity, communication and teamwork are in running a successful business. By creating social media videos, I developed marketing and content creation skills while learning how to engage with different audiences online. Helping with outreach taught me how to build professional relationships and connect with the local community. I also gained experience in event planning and customer service by helping host store events. In addition, organizing trendy and stylish clothing helped me strengthen my eye for fashion trends and visual presentation. Overall, this internship helped me grow professionally and prepared me for future opportunities in fashion, marketing and business. "As I prepare to graduate, I hope to pursue a career in the fashion marketing industry where I can combine my creativity, communication skills and passion for fashion. My internship at Gotham City Outpost has helped guide me in the right direction by giving me hands-on experience in social media marketing, community outreach, event planning and fashion merchandising. This experience has strengthened my confidence and confirmed my interest in working in a creative and fast-paced industry where I can continue to grow professionally." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

SUNY Oneonta student Elaisa Vinicio, from The Bronx, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Sustainable Fashion Week." Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "Sustainable Fashion Week was an experiential learning project focused on promoting sustainability in the fashion industry through creative activities, research and community engagement. The project explored sustainable materials, ethical production practices and ways to reduce waste in fashion," said Vinicio, who is majoring in Fashion and Textiles. "During this internship, I helped create promotional content and visual materials for Sustainable Fashion Week and the upcoming fashion show. I designed posters and social media content to help attract designers and increase awareness about the event. I also participated in brainstorming ideas, discussing marketing strategies and collaborating with others to prepare for the fashion show. Through these activities, I gained hands-on experience in fashion promotion and event preparation. "From this experience, I learned how much planning and teamwork go into organizing a fashion event. I improved my design, communication, and marketing skills while creating promotional materials for the show. I also learned more about sustainability in fashion and how events like this can help spread awareness about ethical and environmentally friendly practices in the industry. This experience helped me become more confident working in a creative and professional environment. "After this internship, I plan to continue gaining experience in fashion marketing, branding and event promotion. I want to continue building my creative and professional skills through future internships and projects related to the fashion industry. This experience also inspired me to learn more about sustainable fashion and how I can apply those ideas to my future career goals and business plans. In the future, I hope to continue working on creative projects that combine fashion, marketing and sustainability." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students

SUNY Oneonta student Vivien Hall, of Newburgh, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "My Experience at House of Consignment." Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "My time over at HOC was my greatest experience here at college. I got to learn so much about retail and sustainability that will support me in my future endeavors, and I got to work with the best people," said Hall, who is majoring in Fashion and Textiles. "My main internship tasks over at HOC were photographing for the store's website, dressing mannequins, quality control, making displays and creating social media content. I also learned how to pull orders, tag clothing, make creative signs, and put new clothes out on the store floor. "My main takeaways were that working with clothing in retail is a lot more physical than I imagined. You are working a lot with your hands, especially when handling consigned clothes that customers bring in. I also learned that fashion, working with clothing, and interacting with customers is definitely something I enjoy and can excel more in. I am very much looking forward to doing this kind of work again in the future. "I will be attending the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City starting in the fall of 2027, where I will continue my studies in Fashion and major in Advertising and Marketing Communications. My experience at SUNY Oneonta has prepared me for this moment, and I couldn't be more grateful for my professors, friends and family, and my amazing internship boss, Kirsty Roefs, for making my experience so amazing. I plan on utilizing the skills I learned from my classes and jobs to better prepare me for the future!" Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students

SUNY Oneonta student Alina Cepeda, of Middletown, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Interning at Gotham City Outpost." Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "As an intern at Gotham City Outpost, I helped both owners, NJ and Seven, with various tasks that help keep a start-up lifestyle boutique running smoothly," said Cepeda, who is majoring in Fashion and Textiles. "This included sourcing new products the owners were looking for, specifically New York-based sourced items. I aided as a communications and event coordinator, sending out emails and calling different facilities in order to organize and promote different events. I also assisted in promotion that includes participating in advertising and creating flyers, modeling the spring clothing collection, and being the spokesperson for their Instagram video advertisement on various genres of product in the store. We also used Google Sheets to create and catalog a product category spreadsheet to understand what we have and what is needed in the store for merchandising. I assisted in visual merchandising, dressed mannequins and changed product displays around. "I learned the very important tasks that must be completed and categorized in your daily life as a small business owner. "I will look for and complete an internship as a stylist's assistant intern, hopefully for the summertime." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students

Molly Eldridge, of Warwick, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Recycling Ambassadorship" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "I worked with the Office of Sustainability during Freshman Move-In Fall 2025 to help divert waste and sort through recycling. Additionally, we focused on public outreach and education about why recycling is important, and what is actually recyclable," said Eldridge, who is studying Anthropology and History. "As a recycling ambassador, I was responsible for making sure that all of the waste from Move-In was diverted by recycling all cardboard, polystyrene, and (approved) plastic film. We got there before Move-In to meet with a representative from Casella. Casella is the company that is responsible for recycling collection here on campus, and the representative explained to us what their facilities do. We were then trained on what materials are recyclable and which are not. During all days of Freshman Move-In, we worked in teams, making sure that we were present at each Freshman building for a portion of the day. We would roam the halls and grab waste, and then sort it in the lobby, making sure to inform families about what we were doing and why recycling is important. "I learned that there are certain plastics that can be recycled, and some that cannot. How I explained this to people, and what I learned, is that if you can poke your finger through it, it can be recycled as plastic film. Additionally, I learned that while normally polystyrene cannot be recycled, Casella had a service that would specially recycle polystyrene from Move-In. The whole experience was eye-opening to how much waste is produced during Move-In. "Ever since my Recycling Ambassador experience, I now focus on how I can be more conscious of my own waste production. I try to educate my friends on which plastics can and cannot be recycled. I will continue to be a part of the Office of Sustainability as an Eco Ambassador, and use my knowledge of this recycling experience to be a leader on recycling-based activities." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Arionna Day, of Ilion, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "The Environmental Public Health and Safety Initiative (EPHSI) Internship" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "During my internship, I gained hands-on experience supporting free community well water testing, coordinating with residents, and assisting with environmental data collection and reporting. This safety initiative has helped me strengthen my communication, organization and public health outreach skills while working in a community-focused setting," said Day, who is studying Geology. "My responsibilities in the EPHSI program included coordinating and communicating with residents, assisting with onsite water sample collection, and accurately recording field data. I also helped develop draft laboratory reports that explained water chemistry results and potential contaminants in an accessible way. Additionally, I contributed to public outreach efforts, helping to organize tabling events, create flyers and build connections among our community members. "Through this project, I learned how environmental science and public health intersect to support community wellbeing. I have gained a stronger background in private well water systems, common contaminants, and the importance of data collection and analysis. The experience also taught me how to effectively communicate scientific information to nontechnical audiences in a clear and respectful way. I also learned the value of community engagement and collaboration, and just how meaningful those community connections are. "Following this project, I plan to continue building on the skills I developed in community engagement, data collection, and science communication. I am currently pursuing additional opportunities related to public health and plan to stay involved within the EPHSI program throughout the rest of my undergraduate education. This experience has truly reinforced my interest in work that connects scientific research with community impact." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Heather Sanger, of Smithtown, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Satoyama Revival: Living Sustainably in the 21st C." at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "I traveled abroad to Tokyo, Japan, to the Global Diversity and Sustainability Camp at Tokyo Metropolitan University (TMU) to study the revival of Satoyama. In the program, we were grouped with other students from Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Malaysia to complete a field study at Jike Furusato Village and present our findings," said Sanger, who is studying Communication Studies and Sociology. "Through participating in the program, I was able to assist in the field study and gather information about the sustainable lifestyle of Satoyama. I participated in asking questions to the local residents we interviewed, taking photos, and sharing my findings. We gathered our findings and discussed what opportunities there were to draw more newcomers and tourism into these areas. From further research and understanding of Satoyama in our home countries, we were able to piece together our ideas. We eventually presented our findings, and I was able to talk about the concept of drawing people in from cities and what draws people to Urban areas over Rural areas.. "This project has taught me a lot about how societies maintain population and where people tend to leave. Understanding how to make a community attractive enough for people to choose to settle in these areas is crucial to maintaining a population. A lot of the recent generations are more likely to move to urban areas, because cities tend to be more modern and more appealing. Understanding how living in rural areas can support all of your needs can help people realize that living in these areas is sustainable. "This research project really shaped my future; it has drawn me into the idea of encouraging tourism and building a society that fulfills a person's lifestyle. I decided to lean more into learning about urban planning and, genuinely, how to revive a community. Looking within the community I live in and where I attend college has really increased my interest in these topics. Currently thinking and discussing how to keep college students in town after they graduate." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Kamelah Union, of Endicott, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Montclair State University Conference" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "I completed research in Fall 2025 with my professor by collecting data and interviewing farmers about their perspective on pesticide use in NY. I then presented my findings at a conference at Montclair State University, New Jersey," said Union, who is studying Environmental Sustainability. "I spoke with farmers to get their opinions on pesticide use, met and interacted with other students at the conference and did some networking. I also attended a few very helpful sessions that gave me insight into the different types of career paths out there. "I learned that while at the conference and interacting with other presenters, these students are very passionate about their topics and want to be heard and for people to be aware of them. This conference was definitely a good way for students to show their findings. It was kind of preparing us for the real world. "I will finish up my education while in my last semester and am thinking about getting my master's degree in either biology or geography and to continue doing what I love." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Ashley Komosinski, of Delhi, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Used Book Drive" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "I helped with a book drive, encouraging students to donate books, children's books that they may have but are not using. These books are being donated to the Head Start on campus," said Komosinski, who is studying Psychology. "I assisted with setting up meeting times to make donation boxes, as well as helping spread awareness to others outside the club of what we are trying to accomplish. I supported each member of the board along the way to make sure this event ran smoothly and provided input and assistance with each task. As well as ensuring we had enough support from staff and students to fulfill our goal to donate used books to the Head Start. "I learned how effective a group can be when working as a team to accomplish something. I also learned that the right motivation could influence numerous people to want to help others as well as the planet. I also learned how much support a club can offer when given the opportunity to. "Next, I would like to try and continue this project while at graduate school. I will be a student at the University at Albany and aspire to spread awareness in the capital. This project was beneficial for me and everyone around me, and I hope it will be just as beneficial wherever I end up next. I hope the future leaders in the HDFS Club continue to hold a used book drive as well." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Alexandra Pizzaia, of Wantagh, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "DIY natural all-purpose cleaners in the residential halls" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "I wanted residents to be able to see a safe and clean natural cleaner. I told them it was refillable and all-purpose. I explained how it not only saves you money but also saves us from unnecessary plastic and harmful chemicals that may not always wash away," said Pizzaia, who is studying Biology. "Before I set up, I asked the Office of Sustainability for help. They supplied me with the proper equipment and resources. Once that was set up, I laid out instructions on how to make the cleaner. I also supplied some essential oils so they could have a clear that also smells nice without harmful chemicals! I gave each resident their own copy of the instructions so they can continue this. "I learned that people are willing to do sustainable things; they need a push. And even though this was very small, I had almost 50 people do something that benefits our plant. With residents, they often go with the easiest and most accessible thing, so that is likely harmful cleaning agents. Giving them this opportunity to see a cheaper and more beneficial way of cleaning things helps broaden their sense of sustainability. "I'd love to do something with dry sheets versus wool balls. I've talked about it with residents, but I want to really test the difference. Oftentimes, people take it well that the wool balls don't smell nice, and I rebut with adding 3 drops of an essential oil, and your laundry smells just as clean, if not cleaner than before. I have briefly started this, and I already see fewer dryer sheets in the halls. I still want to focus on easy and more accessible items because that is the hardest to get people to do, but more importantly, to break away from, even if it's a small population, any amount of effort toward a healthier and cleaner future." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Gabriella Terrano, of Schenevus, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Brewery Ommegang Mercantile Internship" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "While interning at Brewery Ommegang's Mercantile, I learned more about what happens behind the scenes to keep the store running and able to meet customers' needs," said Terrano, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "While interning at Ommegang, I not only completed the regular tasks of a store staff member but also assisted the store manager with her roles as mercantile manager, product and event photographer, and Tap House social media manager. I researched upcoming trends to help make decisions about future merchandise. I used this information to make informed choices on garment colors and designs. I went through the process of creating a promotional email advertisement from start to finish. I also helped to curate a new collection of merch for the upcoming season. "I gained valuable information about the promotional and merchandising aspects of the Ommegang Mercantile. I learned more about how and where Ommegang sources its garments and other products, as well as the methods used to communicate with these businesses. I learned firsthand the months of continuous planning and communication that go into making a retail store run efficiently. "I will be graduating with a bachelor's degree in Fashion and Textiles with a concentration in design this May. After graduation, I will be looking to start my professional career in fashion. While applying to new jobs, I will continue working part-time both in retail and as a lifeguard." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Kiley Monroe, of Syracuse, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Recycling Ambassadors" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "We collected styrofoam, plastic wrap and cardboard from freshman move-in to work on eliminating landfill waste. We worked to make sure everything was collected and recycled properly instead of just putting it in the trash," said Monroe, who is studying Environmental Sustainability and Geography. "I was involved with this program for multiple days. We had three large cardboard boxes to distribute between cardboard, styrofoam and plastic wrap. We went around the building in shifts to collect recyclables from dorms in the hallways, and we took turns helping each other bring cardboard out to the huge recycling crates outside each building. I worked in one building in the morning and a different one in the afternoon, resulting in a multi-hour shift of eliminating trash waste. "My biggest takeaway is how much waste can be produced in just a few days in college move-in. We collected multiple huge crates of cardboard, a whole room full of styrofoam and multiple bags of plastic wrap. I also learned that there are many rules about recycling. You can't recycle plastic unless it is a certain type and it stretches; you can't recycle styrofoam the same way you recycle cardboard. A big issue that happens is that even if one piece of trash goes in the recyclables, it all has to be thrown away. "I have done a lot of community service through sustainability, such as trash cleanups and donation days for the thrift store. I plan to be a recycling ambassador again this upcoming fall because I very much enjoyed it and felt like I made a difference. I want to do more cleanups and properly recycle for more programs for the future, and I hope to become an eco ambassador intern for the next year to continue leading students to make a better earth through our college community." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Liana Walton, of Clifton Park, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Extra Credit Window Display" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "My experiential learning experience was an extra credit opportunity from Dr. Sarah Portway's Fashion in the Global Economy course. I created a holiday-themed window display at Shakedown Street, a consignment shop on Main Street in Oneonta, NY," said Walton, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "This window display was created for the store to promote the holiday season and showcase the unique pieces of clothing and accessories that are available for purchase. "I planned and executed the entire holiday window display, from selecting each garment and accessory to arranging the mannequins and props. I chose pieces that reflected both the season and the store's aesthetic, and made sure the styling was all cohesive and appealing. Throughout the process, I applied principles from my fashion coursework to create a polished and eye-catching display. "While completing this project, I learned how to thoughtfully select and position garments and accessories in a way that aligns with the theme and captures people's attention. This visual merchandising assignment has furthered my experience with both styling and product placement. Creative direction and presentation are everything in fashion, and this project really helped me sharpen the skills I need for the career I'm building." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Alyvia Freeman, of Syracuse, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Alyvia Freeman: Fashion Internship" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "In the Fall Semester of 2025, I had the opportunity to experience a fashion internship with Sweet Caroline's CO Boutique. This internship took place from late August until late November," said Freeman, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "This is some of the visual merchandising I managed during my internship, showcased on the boutique's Instagram. "During my internship at Sweet Caroline's CO Boutique, I gained hands-on experience in both social media management and in-store operations. I created and scheduled posts for Instagram and Facebook, assisted with live social media sessions, and contributed ideas for content strategy. In the store, I styled mannequins, helped with visual merchandising, assisted in event planning and execution and organized inventory. I also supported customers by providing advice, input and checkout assistance, while keeping the store clean and helping brainstorm ideas for promotions and displays. This experience allowed me to combine creativity, customer service, and practical retail and marketing skills. "During my internship, I gained valuable hands-on experience operating the POS system and cash register, which strengthened my technical skills in retail operations. I improved my communication and problem-solving abilities by interacting with customers and assisting with store challenges. I also gained practical experience in marketing, including social media management and visual merchandising. Additionally, I learned how important store location, presentation and quick problem-solving are to overall business success. These experiences have prepared me to confidently apply both customer service and marketing skills in future professional opportunities." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Briyana Rentas, of Haverstraw, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Internship at Sweet Caroline's Co Boutique" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "During my internship with Michelle Castle, I was involved in the daily operations of the boutique, helping to ensure the store ran smoothly while observing the overall management process. I also assisted in transitioning the boutique to online sales, which provided insight into how retail businesses adapt to digital platforms. This experience allowed me to gain a broader understanding of boutique operations," said Rentas, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "This photo shows a mannequin I styled during my boutique internship, highlighting my work in visual merchandising and creating store displays that attract and engage customers. It also represents my experience designing content for social media to promote the boutique and its products. Through this work, I developed a stronger understanding of how in-store displays and online marketing work together to enhance customer experience and support boutique operations. "During my boutique internship, I worked on visual merchandising by styling mannequins and arranging displays to showcase clothing and accessories. I assisted with store operations, including inventory management, using the POS system and customer service. I also created and scheduled social media content to promote the boutique online. This allowed me to gain hands-on experience in both the creative and operational aspects of running a boutique. "This internship taught me how to balance creativity with organization and the importance of attention to detail in a retail environment. I learned how visual presentation and online content work together to engage customers and support business goals. I also gained experience managing multiple responsibilities and adapting to different aspects of boutique operations. These lessons will help me in future roles in retail, merchandising, or marketing by giving me practical skills and a better understanding of running a small business." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Emily Kendrick, of Middletown, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Fashion Internship with Island Premium Printing" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "During my most recent internship at a local small business, Island Premium Printing, I learned the full process of screen printing and design-to-garment, from helping with production to running the store independently. I also saw firsthand how small dreams can grow into real visions. On top of that, I managed their social media, modeled, styled and coordinated shoots, which gave me a well-rounded look at both the creative and day-to-day side of the business," said Kendrick, who is studying Fashion and Textiles and Communication Studies. "This photo is me screen printing tote bags at the City of the Hills Festival, which was one of my favorite hands-on parts of the internship. I am using it on Instagram to bring the store's social media back to life and to start sharing more behind-the-scenes looks at what we have been working on. "During my internship, I helped my boss come up with new design ideas and got to be part of the creative process behind the products. I often worked independently, opening and closing the store on weekends and handling the retail daily operations on my own. I also managed the brand's social media, creating content that fit the style and personality of the business. In addition, I helped style and assist with photoshoots, which gave me more experience on the creative side of marketing. "From this internship, I learned how to take a vision and carry it out from start to finish like a business owner, which inspired me to want to try doing it myself one day. I also learned how screen printing and DTG processes work and got a better sense of how products are actually made. I learned a lot about the target market and how to come up with design ideas that would sell for the brand. On top of that, I helped style and work on photoshoots, which showed me how much visuals matter for a brand's identity." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Mia Yanoti, of Poughkeepsie, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Internship at Leatherstocking Quilts" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "I interned at Leatherstocking Quilts in Oneonta. I gained experience in design and merchandising," said Yanoti, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "This is a snapshot of the updated Leatherstocking Quilts website. During my internship, I worked on the website and organized it so that the store owner could begin online sales. "The online sales feature of the website had been active, but the store owner wanted everything to be completely organized and set up properly before "officially" launching and advertising the online store. I photographed the product, set up a new organizational system for the items and designed a simple layout that is user-friendly. I worked on this project for about a month. "I learned how important it is to consider the target market of a business when designing things like a website. The target market for Leatherstocking Quilts is women ages 65+, so they might not be as technologically adept. Keeping this in mind when designing helped me to create a website layout that allowed for general or highly specific searches, so that customers can browse the online store in a way that works best for them." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Gisselle Rojas De La Luz, of Yonkers, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Shakedown Street Internship" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "I interned at Shakedown Street, where I supported social media content, organized product displays and helped host an event. This experience gave me hands-on insight into small business operations and customer engagement," said Rojas De La Luz, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "This project is a visual summary of my work at Shakedown Street. It features some images from videos I did and a picture with Vicki and the other interns from the event we hosted. This highlights my involvement in content creation, event planning and engaging the community both online and in person. "During my internship at Shakedown Street, I helped manage the shop's social media presence by creating and posting content. I also assisted with product display, making sure the store looked organized, visually appealing and aligned with the brand's style. In addition, I helped plan and host a celebration/fundraiser, supporting customer engagement and creating a positive experience for visitors. "Through these tasks, I learned how to create consistent and effective social media content that matches a business's identity and goals. I developed a stronger eye for visual merchandising and how product placement can influence customer interest. Hosting an event also taught me how to communicate with customers, multitask under pressure and help build a welcoming atmosphere for the community. I also learned how to communicate effectively with other businesses." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Denise Coby, of Binghamton, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "The Underground Attic Internship" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. At The Underground Attic, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the world of vintage clothing alongside small business owner Elizabeth Raphaelson. During my time at I learned valuable lessons in running a small business as well as the importance of online sales," said Coby, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "My main responsibility at UA was helping with online sales, as the population in Oneonta is not enough to sustain a small business alone. We utilized Instagram DM to claim, which I curated at my ships, as well as whatnot, an online live sales platform. During these sales, we were able to sell up to 70 items at a time, which taught me the importance of online selling. "Once sales were complete, I was also responsible for shipping each item with extreme care. Vintage items are incredibly delicate so I had to learn the art of packing glass, crystal, metal and more, sometimes all in one package together. Once items were unrecognizable in tissue paper, bubble wrap and then more paper, I labeled items and sent them on their way. This is definitely a skill I will be carrying with me as a future business owner myself! "Overall, the most important lesson I learned was the importance of forming strong connections with customers both in person and online alike. It is easy to form regular connections and loyal customers in person, but forming those same connections with online buyers who join sales nightly is not as easy. This skill is still equally important, especially when running a business in a small town such as Oneonta." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Deanne Scott, from The Bronx, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Hilltown Edge Magazine Content" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "Course FASH 2700 was assigned the task of completing research and assembling a shopping page as Harper's Bazaar intern. Displaying products styled around a chosen theme, following a two-sentence description on our shopping page," said Scott, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "The shopping page was designed to showcase a specific trend or theme, convincing the reader to buy referenced products, as featured in Hilltown Edge Magazine.. "My main focus while creating this shopping page was to be inspired by neutral tones and the idea of mixing everyday style with the luxury fashion, Desert Luxe. I focused on rich browns, suede textures, and simple silhouettes to create a look that encouraged a bold 'streetwear' and loose outfit. Each piece was hand-picked by me to work together visually while showing how high-end items can still feel wearable. From oversized bags and layered jewelry to casual tops and sneakers. The page combined comfort with luxury in a way that feels comfortable and realistic. Overall, this project shows that I learned how to create a clear theme while styling products thoughtfully to put together a visually attractive shopping page. "This project really taught me how important it is to have a clear concept and stick to it when creating a shopping page. I learned that every single garment that was chosen matters. From colors and textures, to where items are placed on the page to make it look more engaging to the viewers. It helped me figure out how to mix everyday wearable pieces with high-end fashion to make it feel realistic. I also learned a lot about visual balance, like how accessories, clothing, and bags all need to work together, and I tried my best to make it not look as chaotic as the vision. Overall, this project helped me trust my creative instincts more and showed me how to turn an idea into something desirable and professional." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events. Since the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year, the Career Planning and Networking Center has distributed over $319,500 in internship stipends to more than 400 students.

Emma Hart, of Sound Beach, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "House of Consignment Fashion Internship" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "During my hybrid internship under Kirsty Roefs, I had the opportunity to learn the inner workings of the consignment process in a small retail business setting. I gained experience in creating social media content, learned the process of consigning items, and strengthened my visual merchandising skills, all while working both remotely from home and in-store," said Hart, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "This photo is an example of one of the many visual merchandising displays I created in the store. The displays were often themed and meant to showcase certain types of products to drive sales in those areas. "My tasks while working in-store often included photographing and uploading merchandise to the website, creating visual merchandising displays, maintaining and organizing the sales floor, and observing and aiding in the general processes of running a small retail business. When working remotely, I primarily created content for the social media pages and aided in creating ideas for and planning upcoming store events. I also often dealt with general customer questions and reorganized displays to increase space availability and efficiency. "Throughout my time at House of Consignment, I developed an understanding of how a small retail business operates both online and in-store. My experiences photographing and uploading merchandise to the website taught me how to present products effectively and the importance of online sales for a local business without heavy local foot traffic. Additionally, creating visual displays taught me how to effectively utilize design principles and use product placement to drive sales while highlighting certain items. Creating social media content strengthened my creative skills and helped me to understand what drives engagement from customers. Overall, this experience has prepared me for my future career by providing me with organizational, creative and digital skills." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events.

Deanne Scott, from The Bronx, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Hilltown Edge Magazine Shopping Page" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "In course FASH 2700, I was tasked with completing research and assembling a shopping page while writing a one-to two-sentence "blurb" to try to engage our viewers in the featured garments and accessories. We arranged our pages to depict Harper's Bazaar's professional shopping pages using our own themes to present our sense of style," said Scott, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "The shopping page was designed to showcase a specific trend or theme convinving the reader to buy the reference products as featured in Hilltown edge magazine. "I was tasked with exploring Desert Luxe, a luxury shopping page that explores the beauty of neutral tones through a high fashion lens, blending everyday wear with designer pieces. The page displays everyday wear with grand designer pieces. It was inspired by warm brown, suede textures and minimalist luxury. This layout creates a desirable story that blends casual streetwear and runway designs. Each of the items that I had handpicked was selected not only for visual enjoyment, but also for its contribution to showcase a narrative of modern desert-inspired chic. The combination of bold accessories, layered outerwear and large handbags creates a current reflection of fashion trends while maintaining a timeless outfit. This project successfully demonstrates my newly discovered skill of communicating a clear fashion story through a professional shopping page. "This project really taught me how important it is to have a clear concept when it comes to creating a shopping page. I learned how to balance trendy statement pieces with more everyday items that feel more realistic. It helped me figure out how to mix current streetwear with wearable, high-end fashion pieces. I gained a better sense of visual marketing, such as how the accessories, clothing and bags all work together. It taught me how to make the fashion page look less chaotic when assembling my vision. Overall, this project helped me trust my creative instincts and grow more confident in my styling. It elevated my creative decision-making, making my work more sophisticated and professional." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events.

Hannah Perry, of Manchester, CT, has completed an experiential learning project titled "House of Consignment Internship" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "At the House of Consignment, I had the freedom to design ads, style mannequins, interact with customers, and decorate different areas of the store. My time here taught me patience, efficiency and time-management skills that I will take with me forever," said Perry, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "This is an Instagram post I created for the Holiday season. I utilized Pinterest for the background photo and Picsart for additional photo cutouts, text tools and other editing software. I had such a fun time creating these online ads and am looking forward to continuing my growth in the fashion world! "Here, I practiced my skills in ad design by creating collage-style Instagram posts, finding ways to combine design with my knowledge of business and merchandising. I also utilized my knowledge of design to style many of the mannequins, taking garments and placing them together to create eye-catching displays. I took photos for the website using the store phone and put together displays for the store for items such as scarves, belts, and shoes, allowing me to capture each and every product in its most enticing form. I also spoke with a few customers on separate occasions, assisting in finding them the right item for their style and needs. "Taking photos for the website increased my awareness of time-management, efficiency and practicalness while also enlightening me on practices and resources I can use to make the process easier. Creating ads for the website allowed me to see how well my designs engaged with customers, allowing me to improve my speed and ad appeal with each and every post I created. Styling the mannequins broadened my design skillset by giving me practice to conceptualize and experiment with textures, patterns and proportions, which translate into ideas that customers can relate to. Lastly, conversations with customers allowed me to connect with them based on their unique identity and style. I will be able to use these learned skills at future jobs and when I start my business, as I am able to efficiently take product photos, create eye-catching displays, connect with customers and design visually compelling advertisements." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events.

Elaisa Vinicio, from The Bronx, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Shakedown Street: Fashion Internship" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "During my internship at Shakedown Street, I worked as a Social Media Content Creator, helping manage and grow the store's online presence. My role included content planning, collaborations and supporting business events," said Vinicio, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "This final document contains my internship reflection, summarizing my responsibilities, experiences and personal growth during my time at Shakedown Street. It was created and submitted as part of the requirements for my internship course. "I created and approved scheduled social media content for the business. I also modeled and styled pieces, showcasing the products through photos and videos. I worked closely with local businesses and contributed new ideas to help improve engagement. Additionally, I assisted with organizing and supporting store events. My role required creativity, collaboration and strong communication skills. Overall, I was deeply involved in elevating the store's digital presence. "In this role, I learned how to build and manage a content schedule, edit in multiple formats, and find out what techniques perform best for engagement and growth on social media. I have also gained extensive experience in professional communication, particularly through coordinating collaborations with other businesses. This helped me strengthen my organizational skills, creativity, attention to detail and confidence in my marketing abilities." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events.

Denise Coby, of Binghamton, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Brand Expansion Meeting Simulations" at SUNY Oneonta. Throughout the calendar year, SUNY Oneonta students put their classroom knowledge into action as they complete a wide range of experiential learning projects across every academic discipline. Whether studying fashion trends, conducting biological research, analyzing historical archives, working in professional accounting settings or participating in community-based fieldwork, students are gaining real-world experience that prepares them for career success. These opportunities are supported through the university's Experiential Learning Center, located on the main floor of the Hunt Union. The center connects students with internships, research opportunities, global education experiences, volunteer programs and sustainability initiatives. By emphasizing hands-on engagement and practical skill development, the center ensures that experiential learning is woven into every major at SUNY Oneonta. "In this semester-long project, my team worked together to develop and lead a strategic brand expansion meeting for a publicly traded fashion company. We proposed that Hermes expand into Lagos, Nigeria by opening a brick-and-mortar retail store, while exploring executive-level decision-making dynamics," said Coby, who is studying Fashion and Textiles. "The artifact I am submitting is the final slide deck for our brand expansion meeting, which we used to support our meeting with executive stakeholders. "Throughout the semester, I worked with my team to develop a Gantt chart, meeting memos, and the development of geographic factors, a SWOT analysis and a sourcing calendar. I participated in role-playing as both a meeting leader and Chief Marketing Officer for another team. I helped create our slide deck while ensuring that we used on-brand visuals, images, charts and data in order to summarize our final recommendations for our expansion. During the meeting I presented my findings, defended our choices and had to adapt to on-the-spot questions by executives. "This project taught me about strategic decision-making inside the global fashion economy as well as how organizations make decisions with cross-departmental executives. I gained experience in leading meetings, communicating quickly and clearly, persuasion and adjusting based on feedback. The role-playing style of the meetings especially helps improve confidence in stressful and high-stakes situations, giving me the skills to think critically under pressure." Students benefit from a robust network of campus offices housed within the Experiential Learning Center. The Career Planning and Networking Center helps students secure internships in locations such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Albany and Los Angeles, as well as with local businesses and nonprofits. The Office of Global Education offers programs ranging from 10-day faculty-led trips to full-year study abroad experiences, while the Office of Student Research and Creative Activity supports student research through grants and opportunities to present at the annual Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase. SUNY Oneonta invests heavily in helping students access these opportunities. Each year, the university awards more than $120,000 in grants to support student research, internships and travel to professional conferences. In addition, 23 study abroad and experiential scholarships help students participate in faculty-led programs, national competitions and industry events.