Liana Walton Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

Liana Walton, of Clifton Park, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Extra Credit Window Display" 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.

"My experiential learning experience was an extra credit opportunity from Dr. Sarah Portway's Fashion in the Global Economy course. I created a holiday-themed window display at Shakedown Street, a consignment shop on Main Street in Oneonta, NY," said Walton, who is studying Fashion and Textiles.

"This window display was created for the store to promote the holiday season and showcase the unique pieces of clothing and accessories that are available for purchase.

"I planned and executed the entire holiday window display, from selecting each garment and accessory to arranging the mannequins and props. I chose pieces that reflected both the season and the store's aesthetic, and made sure the styling was all cohesive and appealing. Throughout the process, I applied principles from my fashion coursework to create a polished and eye-catching display.

"While completing this project, I learned how to thoughtfully select and position garments and accessories in a way that aligns with the theme and captures people's attention. This visual merchandising assignment has furthered my experience with both styling and product placement. Creative direction and presentation are everything in fashion, and this project really helped me sharpen the skills I need for the career I'm building."

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/Liana-Walton-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/199870