Emily Kendrick Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

Emily Kendrick, of Middletown, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Fashion Internship with Island Premium Printing" 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 most recent internship at a local small business, Island Premium Printing, I learned the full process of screen printing and design-to-garment, from helping with production to running the store independently. I also saw firsthand how small dreams can grow into real visions. On top of that, I managed their social media, modeled, styled and coordinated shoots, which gave me a well-rounded look at both the creative and day-to-day side of the business," said Kendrick, who is studying Fashion and Textiles and Communication Studies.

"This photo is me screen printing tote bags at the City of the Hills Festival, which was one of my favorite hands-on parts of the internship. I am using it on Instagram to bring the store's social media back to life and to start sharing more behind-the-scenes looks at what we have been working on.

"During my internship, I helped my boss come up with new design ideas and got to be part of the creative process behind the products. I often worked independently, opening and closing the store on weekends and handling the retail daily operations on my own. I also managed the brand's social media, creating content that fit the style and personality of the business. In addition, I helped style and assist with photoshoots, which gave me more experience on the creative side of marketing.

"From this internship, I learned how to take a vision and carry it out from start to finish like a business owner, which inspired me to want to try doing it myself one day. I also learned how screen printing and DTG processes work and got a better sense of how products are actually made. I learned a lot about the target market and how to come up with design ideas that would sell for the brand. On top of that, I helped style and work on photoshoots, which showed me how much visuals matter for a brand's identity."

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/Emily-Kendrick-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/199867