Ava Lebid Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

Ava Lebid, of Yorktown Heights, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Business Case Studies: Book Cover" 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.

"Over the summer and beginning of the fall semester, I worked as a design intern under the supervision of Ed Beck at the SUNY Oneonta Faculty Center. The Faculty Center as part of its Open Educational Resources initiative, helps faculty publish original textbooks. SUNY Oneonta and the Fashion Institute of Technology were in the process of creating a new textbook of Fashion Business Case Studies, and I had the opportunity to create the book cover," said Pazer, who is studying Digital & Studio Art.

"The final book cover design shared a balance between modern aesthetics and accessibility. A central focus of the book cover was ensuring that it followed ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards so that the cover would be both readable and inclusive. This meant paying close attention to text size, color contrasts, and layout. In the end, the final product combined clarity with a modern look that achieved Professor Kohan's vision.

"I started the project by creating about four initial drafts, each with a different design approach. These drafts varied in color, layout and typeface. After presenting Professor Kohan with these options, she chose a design that resonated most with her. From there, I refined the chosen draft, making changes based on feedback from both Professor Kohan and Ed Beck. This back-and-forth process taught me how to respond to client needs while still applying my own creative judgment.

"One of the biggest learning curves for me was working with ADA accessibility standards. I had never had to consider how design choices could impact readability for people with visual impairments or other accessibility needs since my previous projects were all personal. I learned to use online tools that test color contrast ratios to ensure that the text was legible against different backgrounds. This required me to be intentional not only with aesthetics but also with function. Beyond technical skills, I also learned about the importance of collaboration, communication, and flexibility in client-based projects. Overall, this project gave me practical experience in professional design work while also teaching me how to balance creativity with accessibility. It was rewarding to see the design evolve from rough drafts into a polished, final cover that Professor Kohan was happy with."

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.

To view these students click here: https://oneonta.meritpages.com/achievements/Ava-Lebid-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/198697