Final Paper
Introduction
My internship took place at the ODU Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab, which is a hands-on learning environment that aims to make STEM accessible to students and groups within the city of Newport News. It is equipped with a variety of innovative technologies and tools, such as 3D printers, laser engravers, direct-to-garment (DTG) printers, and Circuit machines. As an outreach coordinator intern, my primary responsibilities included planning and executing STEM-based activities, assisting with events, and introducing visitors to the tools and resources available. As a cybersecurity major, I was particularly drawn to the opportunity to immerse myself in an environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and hands-on learning. The lab provides an excellent setting for the development of both technical and social skills because it bridges the gap between academic knowledge and practical application. When I started this internship, I had three specific learning objectives, which were to obtain hands-on experience with modern technologies and tools, including those closely related to cybersecurity, improve my leadership and organizational skills, and gain a better knowledge of how innovation labs support community development and education.
Interning at the Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab (also referred to as the iLab) was an intentional decision sparked by my desire to combine my academic knowledge in cybersecurity with hands-on training in a dynamic and innovative environment. As a student at Old Dominion University (ODU), I began to grow a strong interest to real-world applications of technology due to minor experience I have from simulation assignments. My internship at the Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab has been nothing short of a transformative experience that has expanded my understanding of STEM education, improved my technical and leadership skills, and emphasized the significance of outreach to communities with limited resources. During my time at the Innovation lab, I was exposed to a many different kinds of technologies, programs, and hands-on activities, all of which have helped me improve as a professional and as an individual.
The Start of My Internship
The Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab is more than just a workspace; it is a center for innovation, creativity, and learning. The iLab, which was established through a partnership between Old Dominion University and the city of Newport News, is a resource for students and community members. The purpose of the innovation lab is to open up access to technology by providing tools and training that would otherwise be out of reach for many people. My first impressions of the innovation lab were positiive. The environment was naturally welcoming, and the employees were friendly and approachable. Although I hadn’t yet worked on any cybersecurity-related projects, I noticed that the technical skills I was learning such as troubleshooting, design, and problem-solving would come in handy in my future career.
In my first week at the lab, I focused on getting acclimated to the tools and machines available. One of my initial tasks was to understand the technical details of 3D printing, specifically using the Bambu 3D printer. My first project, shown in Appendix A, involved creating and printing a personalized baggage tag with Tinkercad, a 3D modeling tool. This work introduced me to the process of exporting STL files, prepping them for printing with Bambu Studio, and ensuring the end result meets the criteria of the example. Completing one of my first projects gave me a sense of accomplishment and allowed me to set the tone for my expectations as an intern at the iLab. My next task was to use the DTG printer to print a design onto a handbag (see Appendix B). I started with creating a design in Canva and following the steps outlined to print my first design with the DTG printer. My supervisor used this task to walk me through the process of how to use the printers and I can say it was easier than I expected.
About the Management Environment
The management structure at the Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab was an ideal mix between guidance and independence. My direct supervisor, the program manager, played an important role in ensuring that I had guidance throughout my internship. Their management style highlighted mentorship, giving me the tools and criticism I needed to succeed while yet allowing me to take control of my assignments and projects. One of the most admirable characteristics of the management environment was its adaptability. For example, when I was responsible with organizing STEM projects, I had the freedom to design activities and personalize them to the audience and environment. My supervisor encouraged creativity and innovation, which inspired me and also improved the quality of the projects I presented. Collaboration was another important aspect of the lab’s management structure. As interns, other staff, and community members, we frequently collaborated on projects, instilling a sense of teamwork and shared objectives. This collaborative approach taught me the importance of effective communication and different perspectives, both of which are essential qualities in any working environment.
Major Assignments and Projects
As I became more comfortable and familiar with the ilab, my responsibilities began to increase as well. Around October was when I was able to be more involved in designing and leading different STEM activities. For example, at the first outreach event I attended for a career fair we introduced engaging hands-on exercise such as a pick-and-place robotic arm along with a welding simulation activity. These demonstrations and activities were intended to not only pique the interest of attendees but to also draw attention to the innovation lab and share all the programs we have to offer. This event in particular has taught me the importance and value of connecting and networking with others and communicating the benefits of STEM education through interesting and interactive activities. Another memorable experience was leading a group through building a “kicker”, which is a device that launches a small ball using a band and lever setup (displayed in Appendix C). This project required me to explain complex instructions in a way that would be understandable to participants of various skill levels, ensuring that everyone was able to successfully build their device. Leading this activity improved my ability to adapt and accommodate those with different learning styles and create a supportive environment for participants.
In addition to these activities, I was also responsible for working on individual projects that required technical experience and problem-solving skills. One of the individual projects that I worked on involved using the Cricut machine to print 100 stickers for the SmithTech Lab School which were already designed (shown in Appendix D). This task required me to follow specific instructions, troubleshoot machine errors, and ensure that the finished product met the standards of quality. Completing this project not only improved my technical skills, but it also emphasized the significance of paying attention to detail and patience when minor technical issues arise.
Throughout my internship, I also had the opportunity to contribute to major events and activities at the lab. One of these activities was the Father Figure Field Trip, where I led a rubber band racer exercise with students and their fathers (see Appendix E). This event was particularly enjoyable and probably my favorite since I was able to witness the student’s enthusiasm and creative thinking as they created their racecars. It also emphasized the significance of making STEM activities entertaining and accessible to families, creating opportunity for them to bond and learn together.
Lastly, another significant accomplishment was leading a 3D printing session for a group of teenage girls, who were introduced by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority members. It was an unforgettable opportunity to guide these young women through the process of designing and producing individual keychains. It allowed me to share my technical knowledge while encouraging them to express their creativity and explore different STEM activities. This event demonstrated how STEM can be used to inspire and empower groups who may feel or seem underrecognized. As someone seeking a career in cybersecurity, I recognize the value of representation and mentorship in breaking down barriers for underrepresented groups in STEM. Guiding these young ladies through the design and creation of personalized keychains was not only an opportunity for me to share my knowledge in technology, but also to encourage them to explore their own potential in STEM.
This internship has been a life-changing experience that has not only prepared me for the next steps in my career, but has also reignited my enthusiasm for STEM and its potential to make a positive impact. The experiences, challenges, and insights I have gained from interning at the Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab will stay with me as I continue to grow and strive for my goals. Looking forward, I’m excited to apply the skills and experiences I gained during my internship to my future career in cybersecurity. The technical knowledge I have gained will surely be useful as I work with advanced tools and technologies, while my leadership and communication skills will enable me to successfully collaborate with coworkers and teammates. Furthermore, the innovation lab’s emphasis on outreach and education has motivated me to think about how I might use my work to help the community and advocate for more STEM educational opportunities and environments. Understanding the needs of diverse audiences was a critical component of my position as an outreach coordinator. The innovation lab accommodates people of diverse groups, ages, and backgrounds, so I had to adjust my communication style and teaching strategy based on the group I was working with. For example, when leading activities for young children, I had to clarify complex instructions while emphasizing curiosity and enthusiasm. While on the other hand, working with teenagers and adults required a more technical and in-depth explanation of the tools and processes. These experiences have significantly improved my understanding on how to properly communicate information, which will be crucial in my future career.
The Use of Prior Skills and Knowledge in Cybersecurity
One of the most valuable aspects of my internship at Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab was the opportunity to apply and expand my technological skills in a hands-on environment. While my primary role was as an outreach coordinator, many of the activities I coordinated or participated in were directly or indirectly related to cybersecurity concepts. These connections not only improved my academic knowledge, but also opened up new perspectives on how interdisciplinary tools and techniques may interact with cybersecurity. For example, one of the activities I worked on involves programming micro bits, which are little programmable devices used to teach coding and electronics concepts. During this activity, I assisted one of the graduate assistants while she walked a group of students through the process of programming their micro bits to display personalized messages or perform activities when specific buttons were hit. Each micro bit had two buttons (labeled “A” and “B”), and students were encouraged to program different outputs depending on which button was pressed. This activity involved the usage of fundamental programming concepts like loops, conditional expressions, and input/output operations. Students could operate their micro bits with basic scripts written in Microsoft MakeCode, a visual block-based programming environment. For example, pushing button “A” might display a heart emblem or a personalized text message, whereas pressing button “B” might start a scrolling animation or show a countdown.
This project was not only enjoyable and interesting for participants, but it also connected directly to cybersecurity principles in various ways. For example, understanding the logic behind programming and how devices handle inputs and outputs is critical in cybersecurity, especially when dealing with hardware vulnerabilities or safeguarding IoT (Internet of Things) devices. By teaching students how to program micro bits, I was also instilling a fundamental understanding of how technology works, which is an important skill for those pursuing a career in cybersecurity. For me personally, this activity highlighted the importance of problem-solving and adaptability. Each student approached the work differently, which meant I had to troubleshoot a few different programming issues. Some of them wanted their micro bits to execute more complex tasks, such as showing alternate messages or responding when both buttons were hit simultaneously. Helping them attain these goals required a combination of technical knowledge and creative thinking, as well as the ability to explain programming concepts in simple, understandable terms.
Academic Preparation
My academic background at ODU helped prepare me for this internship. Courses in cybersecurity and related sectors offered a solid basis in technological principles, which I used for responsibilities like troubleshooting and organizing projects. For example, my knowledge in programming and system operations allowed me to rapidly learn how to use the lab’s tools and troubleshoot technical problems. The internship also helped strengthen many of the topics I had studied in school. For example, the emphasis on problem solving and critical thinking in my classes carried over effectively to my lab responsibilities. At the same time, the internship’s hands-on approach exposed me to new techniques and technologies that I had not encountered in my academic studies, which enhanced my overall learning experience.
Addressing the Goals and Objectives
When I began my internship at the Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab, I had three main goals, which were to obtain hands-on experience with new technology, to build leadership and organizational skills, and to learn about how this innovation lab contributes to the development of the community. Each of these objectives played a crucial role in shaping my expectations for the internship and guiding my activities throughout the program. Reflecting on my experience, I can confidently say that the internship considerably fulfilled these goals, though there were areas where I encountered challenges or opportunities for growth.
For my first goal, which was to gain hands-on experience with new tools, I think the internship partially fulfilled this aspect. Although it wasn’t the initial experience I was looking for, I was able to work with machines I’ve never used before and gain different insights and inquiries. The iLab offers an opportunity to work with the latest technologies and tools, including 3D printers, laser cutters, and robotics equipment. From the start, I was encouraged to familiarize myself with these technologies through a guided training session and self-directed projects. One of the first tasks that directly applied to this goal was designing and printing a luggage tag using a 3D printer. This project introduced me to Tinkercad, a 3D modeling software, and Bambu Studio, a platform for creating print-ready designs. While this work was easy, it helped me gain experience and confidence in digital design and production tools. Another example was my involvement in facilitating a workshop where we used a Circuit machine to produce stickers for an event. This task not only required precision and attention to detail but also exposed me to the technical challenges of maintaining and troubleshooting hardware. While not directly related to cybersecurity, it demonstrated the analytical thinking and problem-solving skills required in my field. By the end of the internship, I was able to acquire a diverse set of technical abilities that exceeded my initial expectations. While I had intended to learn more about cybersecurity-specific technology, the internship still provided a solid foundation in technical skills and interdisciplinary thinking.
My second objective of developing leadership and organizational skills was an area of the internship I believe was highly successful. As an outreach coordinator, my responsibilities included preparing and leading STEM projects, arranging outreach events, and dealing with a variety of audiences. These tasks required a combination of leadership, communication, and organizational skills, all of which I improved greatly during my time at the iLab. One of the most significant examples was my job as leader of the Father Figure Field Trip. This event invited elementary school students and their fathers to the iLab for a hands-on session where they created “Rubber Band Racers.” As one of the instructors, I had to walk them through the activity step by step, making sure they understood the instructions and had the necessary resources. Another example was a 3D printing activity for young girls brought by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority members. During this activity, I walked them through the process of designing and constructing their personalized keychains. This experience required me to balance instructional skills with guidance and encouragement, ensuring that each student felt supported and confident in their skills. While I gained significant leadership experience, I also encountered challenges that highlighted areas for growth. For example, managing group dynamics during workshops was occasionally difficult, especially when students had different levels of familiarity with the technology. These instances required quick thinking and adaptability, pushing me to improve my problem-solving and communication skills.
Understanding the role of the innovation lab in community development was likely the most impactful goal, as it allowed me to witness firsthand how the innovation lab can bridge the gap between education and real-world applications. The Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab is a valuable resource for the Newport News community, offering access to tools and technologies that might otherwise be unavailable. My work as an intern allowed me to contribute to this cause and witness its impact. For example, during the career fair where we demonstrated a robotic arm and a welding simulation, I noticed how hands-on activities could spark interest in STEM fields. Many visitors, particularly younger students, were intrigued by the demonstrations which encouraged their parents to seek more about the lab’s resources. These experiences deepened my understanding of the innovation labs social and educational roles. They are not just spaces for technological exploration but also platforms for building community, promoting inclusiveness, and addressing educational inconsistencies.
Motivating and Exciting Aspects
One of the most motivating aspects of my internship was the opportunity to see firsthand how STEM education can inspire curiosity and innovation among visitors. The activities I led, such as making “Rubber Band Racers” or introducing students to 3D printing, were more than just technical exercises; they were moments of discovery for the students. Witnessing their enthusiasm and participation confirmed the significance of making STEM accessible and enjoyable. For instance, during these fieldtrips I’m able to witness how the students’ faces would brighten up when they successfully created and raced their rubber band-powered cars. These experiences reminded me of the transforming potential of education and technology. It was significantly fulfilling to know that my efforts had helped encourage an interest in STEM, potentially affecting these students’ future goals.
Another exciting aspect was the opportunity to work with different tpes of machinery. From operating 3D printers to identifying minor difficulties with the Circuit machine , I was continually learning and adapting. This hands-on experience not only enhanced my technical skills but also fueled my passion for innovation. The dynamic and fast-paced nature of the lab assured that no two days would be the same, keeping me engaged and motivated throughout the internship.
Discouraging Aspect
While the internship was largely positive, there were some challenges. One of the more disappointing yet expected elements was dealing with technological issues that periodically disturbed my tasks and projects. For example, there were instances where a 3D printer malfunctioned or a software application failed to function as expected. These setbacks were frustrating, especially when they delayed the completion of a task or disrupted the flow of a group led project. Another challenge was managing the expectations of participants and visitors during outreach events. While most guests were eager and accommodating, there were a few instances where technical challenges or time limits caused frustration which is understandable. Balancing the need to provide a valuable experience while addressing these challenges required patience and effective communication. Balancing the need to provide a valuable experience while addressing these challenges required patience and effective communication. Additionally, balancing the demands of the internship with my academic responsibilities was a constant struggle. Juggling coursework, internship duties, and personal commitments required mindful time management and prioritization. While this experience taught me great lessons about devotion and adaptation, it was unquestionably one of the most demanding portions of the internship.
Challenging Aspects
The most challenging aspect of the internship was stepping out of my comfort zone to take on leadership roles. While I had prior team experience, leading workshops and coordinating events required a higher level of confidence and organizational ability. For instance, during the 3D printing workshop for the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority group, I had to ensure that each participant understood the design and printing process while troubleshooting any technical issues that arose. Managing a broad group of individuals with different levels of experience was both difficult and fulfilling. These difficulties, while challenging at times, were important for my personal and professional development. They pushed me to improve my leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, which will surely help me in future positions.
Recommendations for Future Interns
Based on my experience I would recommend taking the time to research and learn most of the equipment or material your internship will have you doing, prior to starting your internship. Preparing for what grounds you’ll be covering in the first week of your internship will allow you to excel and start out ahead which also guarantees that you can maximize your time and productivity. I would also recommend that interns develop strong organizational skills as you may have to balance school, work, and whatever else consumes your time. Managing multiple projects and events requires careful planning and time management as well. It would be smart to invest in a planner or create some type of system that allows interns to keep track of their tasks and assignments. Another recommendation is to be open to all learning possibilities. The iLab is a space of continuous innovation and there is always something new to learn. With an open and curious mindset it allows interns to learn much more and explore fields or machines they’ve never been introduced to before. Lastly, it is imperative to embrace all challenges and tasks that may get thrown at you. Not only will the internship present multiple challenges, but so will other stressors such as class and other big projects. Embracing these challenges allows the opportunity for growth and understanding.
Conclusion
Reflecting on my internship at the Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab, I realize that this experience was far more beneficial than I initially anticipated. While I started the internship with the main goal of gaining technical experience and developing leadership skills the journey revealed more about my strengths and goals. My internship was a turning point in my academic and professional development. It much exceeded my expectations in terms of the skills I learned, the obstacles I overcame, and the insights I uncovered. More than just a technical learning experience, it provided an opportunity to develop as a leader, collaborator, and advocate for technology’s ability to create positive change.
One of the most significant takeaways from this experience is the realization that technology is not just a tool—it is also a bridge. It connects people with opportunities, ideas, and each other. Whether I was helping students make “Rubber Band Racers” or teaching them the fundamentals of programming with micro bits, I noticed how technology could spark their interest, instill confidence, and encourage creativity. These encounters served as an important reminder of why I selected a career in technology which was to help others and contribute to a brighter future. As I continue my education at Old Dominion University, the lessons I learned during my internship will influence how I approach my coursework and projects going forward. For example, my hands-on experience with 3D printers and micro bits has inspired me to discover how these tools may be used in cybersecurity research and applications.
Looking past my time at ODU, this internship has helped form my long-term career goals. It has inspired me to strongly consider working in a position which includes knowledge of technology and community influence. Whether it’s creating secure IoT devices, supporting cybersecurity education, or designing systems that prioritize accessibility, I’m devoted to using my knowledge and skills to help others. This internship also taught me the value of interdisciplinary teamwork, which will help me navigate the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity. In conclusion, my internship at the Brooks Crossing Innovation Lab was more than simply a learning experience; it was a transforming journey that broadened my perspectives and deepened my understanding of the connection of technology, education, and community. It pushed me to grow in unexpected ways and helped me see the type of professional I want to be in the future. As I move forward, I am appreciative for the experiences, talents, and perspectives I received during my internship, and I am looking forward to seeing how they will affect my future.
Appendices
Appendix A: 3D Printed Luggage Tag
Appendix B: DTG Printed Handbag Design
Appendix C: Kicker
Appendix D: SmithTech Stickers using Circuit
Appendix E: Rubber band Racer
