Elaisa Vinicio Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

Elaisa Vinicio, from The Bronx, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Shakedown Street: Fashion 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 at Shakedown Street, I worked as a Social Media Content Creator, helping manage and grow the store's online presence. My role included content planning, collaborations and supporting business events," said Vinicio, who is studying Fashion and Textiles.

"This final document contains my internship reflection, summarizing my responsibilities, experiences and personal growth during my time at Shakedown Street. It was created and submitted as part of the requirements for my internship course.

"I created and approved scheduled social media content for the business. I also modeled and styled pieces, showcasing the products through photos and videos. I worked closely with local businesses and contributed new ideas to help improve engagement. Additionally, I assisted with organizing and supporting store events. My role required creativity, collaboration and strong communication skills. Overall, I was deeply involved in elevating the store's digital presence.

"In this role, I learned how to build and manage a content schedule, edit in multiple formats, and find out what techniques perform best for engagement and growth on social media. I have also gained extensive experience in professional communication, particularly through coordinating collaborations with other businesses. This helped me strengthen my organizational skills, creativity, attention to detail and confidence in my marketing abilities."

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/Elaisa-Vinicio-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/199468