Gabriella Terrano Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

Gabriella Terrano, of Schenevus, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Brewery Ommegang Mercantile 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.

"While interning at Brewery Ommegang's Mercantile, I learned more about what happens behind the scenes to keep the store running and able to meet customers' needs," said Terrano, who is studying Fashion and Textiles.

"While interning at Ommegang, I not only completed the regular tasks of a store staff member but also assisted the store manager with her roles as mercantile manager, product and event photographer, and Tap House social media manager. I researched upcoming trends to help make decisions about future merchandise. I used this information to make informed choices on garment colors and designs. I went through the process of creating a promotional email advertisement from start to finish. I also helped to curate a new collection of merch for the upcoming season.

"I gained valuable information about the promotional and merchandising aspects of the Ommegang Mercantile. I learned more about how and where Ommegang sources its garments and other products, as well as the methods used to communicate with these businesses. I learned firsthand the months of continuous planning and communication that go into making a retail store run efficiently.

"I will be graduating with a bachelor's degree in Fashion and Textiles with a concentration in design this May. After graduation, I will be looking to start my professional career in fashion. While applying to new jobs, I will continue working part-time both in retail and as a lifeguard."

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/Gabriella-Terrano-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/200482