Located between Raider Walk and the Cafeteria, several vendors haul their merchandise under large tents and make themselves available to give students the opportunity to browse the products and shop till they drop.
“Students seem to like the vendors, especially the jewelry ones,” said Leanne Colvin, a business administrative assistant in the Administration building.
According to Colvin, half a dozen different vendors come to campus on a regular basis a couple times during the month and there are plenty more that are interested. Most of them come during the second or third week of each month and stay for at least two or three days.
A particularly popular private vendor, known as Sopon Jewelry, has been selling jewelry on campus for the last four and a half years. While being open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., owner and creator, Sopon Puangraj, said he really enjoys his time selling his products both at Moorpark and at other events, such as farmers markets and at different schools.
“I live in San Fernando, so [Moorpark College] is close to my house and I can easily come and sell stuff,” said Puangraj
Puangraj has a plethora of accessories available for both men and women. Some of their most popular products among students are the variety of jewelry including: necklaces, rings, bracelets, both stainless steel and string, and earrings. Other things available for sale are sunglasses, hats, crystals, and even dream catchers.
“We always have lots of costumers and they buy a little bit of everything that we have,” said Puangraj.
Real stainless steel jewelry, handmade items, and unique things that you might not find anywhere else, range from $3-$40.
Twenty-six-year-old Courtney Chin, a psychology major, was captivated by the unique display of the booth and products, specifically the hat selection. She commented on how having something to do and look at in-between classes was a great idea to have on campus.
“[The vendors] are something nice to take a break from learning and to buy and see interesting new things,” said Chin.
Isabell Sosa, 20, has a fashionable interest in all the merchandise Sopon Jewelry brings.
“I’m really into rings,” Sosa said. “I love silver ones, especially ones with really cool stones.”
Sosa also previously bought some friendship bracelets and plans to support the vendors by buying more things in the future.
Having the vendors on campus has attracted student interest and has given students the opportunity to experience something other than the traditional academic experience.
“Having the vendors is different than just going to class, and you really don’t expect them to be at your school, so that’s cool!” Sosa said.
