Saranna Shevalier Completes Experiential Learning Project at SUNY Oneonta

Saranna Shevalier, of Ballston Spa, NY, has completed an experiential learning project titled "Reassessing the Paleoecological Context of Area 123 at Koobi Fora, East Turkana, Kenya" 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.

"In June of 2025, I had the opportunity to join the Koobi Fora Field School, through George Washington University and went to Kenya for a six-week field school. Throughout this time, we camped near our sites and went out in the field to survey and collect data daily," said Shevalier, who is studying Anthropology.

"This research poster was presented at SUNY Oneonta's Summer Showcase, September 2025.

"Traveling to Kenya and joining the Koobi Fora Field School meant a lot of days of travel throughout the country. We camped at each stop and attended extensive lectures from the professionals running the field school. We were introduced to concepts in geology, mapping, paleoecology, paleontology, paleobotany, mobility and land-use patterns and more. Our days consisted of mornings of field survey looking for fossils in our desired locations, followed by lunches in the field and evenings spent working on these research projects. By the end of the six weeks, we had completed a PowerPoint presentation of our findings, as well as a five-page paper.

"This poster is the final usage of the data collected in comparison to a database of collections throughout the 1970's to current(Turkana Public Database). This was my first time using R, or GIS to create graphics for my own project. I also had the opportunity to read through many journal articles that provided regional context to this experience. I will be able to present this work in the future, and continue to build upon it if I am able to go back to Kenya this upcoming summer."

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/Saranna-Shevalier-Completes-Experiential-Learning-Project-at-SUNY-Oneonta/198694