Briyana Rentas Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

Briyana Rentas, of Haverstraw, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Internship at Sweet Caroline's Co Boutique" 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 with Michelle Castle, I was involved in the daily operations of the boutique, helping to ensure the store ran smoothly while observing the overall management process. I also assisted in transitioning the boutique to online sales, which provided insight into how retail businesses adapt to digital platforms. This experience allowed me to gain a broader understanding of boutique operations," said Rentas, who is studying Fashion and Textiles.

"This photo shows a mannequin I styled during my boutique internship, highlighting my work in visual merchandising and creating store displays that attract and engage customers. It also represents my experience designing content for social media to promote the boutique and its products. Through this work, I developed a stronger understanding of how in-store displays and online marketing work together to enhance customer experience and support boutique operations.

"During my boutique internship, I worked on visual merchandising by styling mannequins and arranging displays to showcase clothing and accessories. I assisted with store operations, including inventory management, using the POS system and customer service. I also created and scheduled social media content to promote the boutique online. This allowed me to gain hands-on experience in both the creative and operational aspects of running a boutique.

"This internship taught me how to balance creativity with organization and the importance of attention to detail in a retail environment. I learned how visual presentation and online content work together to engage customers and support business goals. I also gained experience managing multiple responsibilities and adapting to different aspects of boutique operations. These lessons will help me in future roles in retail, merchandising, or marketing by giving me practical skills and a better understanding of running a small business."

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/Briyana-Rentas-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/199868