Arionna Day Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

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.

To view these students click here: https://oneonta.meritpages.com/achievements/Arionna-Day-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/201298