Interning at CBRIN: Sam Hodgson’s Journey of Growth in Innovation and Networking

Stepping into the world of innovation as an intern at the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN) has been a “hands-on experience” for Sam Hodgson, an ANU Engineering Student. This “hands-on” experience has included projects and networking conversations at First Wednesday Connect, and this has sparked his thinking in new ways. Recently, we sat down with Sam to reflect on the lessons learned, skills gained, and how he has grown personally and professionally during his time here. Read along as Sam gives us a glimpse into a transformative experience at CBRIN. 

 

“ It is one of my greatest ambitions to start and run a successful business. I like the idea of working for yourself and find the challenge of building a company very inspiring. 

 

Through my internship at CBRIN, I have been lucky enough to converse with many others like me. I have had the opportunity to pick the brains of seasoned entrepreneurs, learn from entrepreneurs who are in the thick of it and discuss ideas with those who are just starting out.  

 

However, it didn’t come without its challenges. This internship was my very first office job and it took me a while to understand both the operations of CBRIN but also general business administration. Before this internship I had never touched a CRM before, had never used Slack or even sat in an actual meeting.  

 

I was super excited to learn more about start-ups and gain more insight into entrepreneurship. Yet I was surprised by how much hands-on experience I was able to gain. The CBRIN team was generous enough to let me sit in on weekly meetings with Ken Kroeger as a part of the Entrepreneur in Residence program, participate in their workshops and engage with local entrepreneurs in a variety of networking events. 

 

I did do some actual work! I put my engineering skills to work, using python to complete some data entry tasks. Additionally, I automated some internal processes with Zapier. I also assisted in workshop facilitation, quarterly report writing, and CBRIN promotion at events. 

 

My two pieces of advice to someone starting a similar internship would be the following: 

1. Ask a ton of questions. Be curious. For me, the people around me were my most valuable resource to gain an understanding for my future start-up. Be open to ideas, advice and feedback and use it as an opportunity to learn and develop your own skills 
2. Be as helpful as possible. This is your opportunity to show what you can do and (hopefully) impress those working with you. Do whatever it is that the company needs and try your hardest. The more helpful you are to others, the more likely they are to provide you opportunities.  

 

Ultimately, this CBRIN internship has been the best possible experience for me to get involved in the start-up community in Canberra. I have learnt a lot and can’t wait to apply my knowledge towards my own entrepreneurial efforts.”

 

If you’re interested in interning at CBRIN or with one of the businesses in our network, check out our careers page.