Denise Coby Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

Denise Coby, of Binghamton, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "The Underground Attic 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.

At The Underground Attic, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the world of vintage clothing alongside small business owner Elizabeth Raphaelson. During my time at I learned valuable lessons in running a small business as well as the importance of online sales," said Coby, who is studying Fashion and Textiles.

"My main responsibility at UA was helping with online sales, as the population in Oneonta is not enough to sustain a small business alone. We utilized Instagram DM to claim, which I curated at my ships, as well as whatnot, an online live sales platform. During these sales, we were able to sell up to 70 items at a time, which taught me the importance of online selling.

"Once sales were complete, I was also responsible for shipping each item with extreme care. Vintage items are incredibly delicate so I had to learn the art of packing glass, crystal, metal and more, sometimes all in one package together. Once items were unrecognizable in tissue paper, bubble wrap and then more paper, I labeled items and sent them on their way. This is definitely a skill I will be carrying with me as a future business owner myself!

"Overall, the most important lesson I learned was the importance of forming strong connections with customers both in person and online alike. It is easy to form regular connections and loyal customers in person, but forming those same connections with online buyers who join sales nightly is not as easy. This skill is still equally important, especially when running a business in a small town such as Oneonta."

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/Denise-Coby-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/199681