Pros
Foremost, this job provided outlets for self-directed research followed by practical evaluations and assessments of products surrounding cannabinoid consumption. The vast majority of this research was independent, although guidance was always available from any number of the other employees.
Coming into this employment with an academic backing allowed the research and laboratory work to move swiftly; shifting the majority of the learning and improvement to the industrial consumer-based side of research. Some responsibilities (e.g. the business portion) were initially difficult to grapple with but opened my perspective from a purely academic view to an industrial view of scientific developments.
Additionally, as this company is spreading its wings, all efforts and developments are tangible and easily visualized. This incentive underlines the work accomplished each week and generates a truly motivating workplace.
In the end, the hard work paid off and the internship resulted in the development of a key, cost-effective, in-house product that will be utilized rigorously in the future of this company. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have researched at HYTN.
Cons
It is difficult to list issues with this internship, as most road blocks acted as learning opportunities and existed due to my naive understanding of the scientific industry. This being said, a couple of preemptive lessons or lectures outlining in detail the tenacity needed to perform adequately within the business aspect may have mitigated a few roadblocks. Such barriers occurred when I lacked the knowledge or initiative to track down vendors, follow up on previous orders, or push orders that were urgently needed to continue the development of various products. As much as I acknowledge my mistakes as a lack of experience, I believe that more debriefing on this subject may have helped these situations.
Lastly, if not for my own agenda, I wish that this employment could continue and I'm sad to leave my position at HYTN.