Starting a new internship is always an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. It's a time of new beginnings, opportunities, and challenges. In the next following weeks, I will embark on a hopefully amazing and enrichening journey at Optos.
In this blog post, I will recount the highlights of my first week, from office tours to strategic planning sessions, giving you an inside look at my immersive introduction to the company.
On my first day, I was greeted with a sense of anticipation as I embarked on an orientation program. The day began with a tour of the office and lab facilities. It was fascinating to witness firsthand where groundbreaking ideas take shape and transform into reality. I also got to meet the other Saltire Intern, Anna Conti, who will be working on a project with me.
Next on the list were the IT and HR introductions. There I familiarized myself with the systems, tools, and policies that would streamline my work. I learned about the company's emphasis on quality and compliance, ensuring that every aspect of our operations adheres to the highest standards.
A session followed, where light was shed on intellectual property and the role of a patent attorney. I realized that inventions are more prevalent than I have thought, and understanding how to protect and leverage them can be a game-changer.
The day concluded with an opportunity to meet my team and discuss the project I would be working on.
The highlight of the second day was the lunch and learn session. During lunch and learn sessions apprentices and graduates share their journey and expertise at Optos. At the end of my internship I will also host a lunch and learn session. This time a finance apprentice shared her story, describing how her passion for finances led her to her current role. Through the lunch and learn session I was able to meet a diverse group of apprentices and trainees, from different parts of the company with different journeys.
Day three started not at Optos, but at the Carnegie Conference Centre. There the entirety of the R&D team came together to plan the tasks and set objectives for the next couple months. It commenced with an invigorating opening session, where sales, challenges, and achievements were discussed. Stakeholders and management shared the main objectives that they aspired to achieve, setting the tone for the upcoming months.
In breakout sessions, teams collaborated to formulate plans that would guide their work over the next three months. Every task was examined and assessed, ensuring that nothing was overlooked and that it could be effectively integrated into the schedule. This process encouraged critical thinking and emphasized the importance of strategic planning.
The fourth day commenced with stakeholders and management reviewing the draft plans, offering feedback and guidance. This collaborative approach emphasized the value of open communication and the continuous improvement of strategies.
Teams then conducted a provisional confidence vote, rating their level of confidence in successfully executing the plan.
Potential risks associated with each task were identified. This is important in order to think of actions that could mitigate risks.
The day concluded with a comprehensive review of the final plan by all team members. This ensured that the objectives were well-defined and that each task was accounted for. With that, a concrete plan was set for the next months. Having this plan gives clarity on what needs to be done and boost productivity. As an intern it was nice seeing, that even though I am working on a smaller project, the project still got included in the tasks and objectives.
As a perfect ending to the week, I had the opportunity to work from home. This allowed me to read project-relevant papers and gather valuable knowledge.
The first week of my internship was an immersive experience that provided a comprehensive introduction to the company's operations and culture. From office tours to strategic planning sessions, each day offered unique opportunities for learning, collaboration, and growth. As I reflect on this transformative week, I am filled with a sense of purpose and excitement for the journey that lies ahead. The stage is set for innovation, and I am eager to contribute to the company's ongoing success.
