Alyvia Freeman Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

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.

To view these students click here: https://oneonta.meritpages.com/achievements/Alyvia-Freeman-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/199869