Ashley Komosinski Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

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.

To view these students click here: https://oneonta.meritpages.com/achievements/Ashley-Komosinski-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/200489