Alexandra Pizzaia Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

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.

To view these students click here: https://oneonta.meritpages.com/achievements/Alexandra-Pizzaia-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/200487