Creating, Learning & Laughing: Behind the Scenes with Our Launch Pad Interns
Internships are often where classroom learning meets real-world creativity — and for Elisa, Anthony, and Sana, their time at Launch Pad was just that.
Over three months, the trio explored what it truly means to work in a space where innovation, community, and laughter go hand in hand.
From managing large-scale events to producing viral social media reels, their experience was filled with both challenges and unforgettable moments. Through the podcast, the interns opened up about what they learned, what surprised them, and how the experience shaped their confidence for the future.
Starting Their Journey at Launch Pad
For many students, the first step into an internship is filled with both excitement and uncertainty. Elisa, a Public Relations student, shared how she stumbled across the opportunity through Western Sydney University — and found herself diving straight into Launch Pad’s creative heartbeat.
“I’m studying public relations and I’m helping with marketing of events and everything here at Launch Pad — like making reels and everything for more engagement, which I think is a lot of fun.”
Elisa Phuong
For Anthony and Sana, the appeal went beyond just gaining experience. It was about becoming part of a community where ideas are encouraged to grow — and where learning happens through doing.
Thrown into the Deep End — and Loving It
One of the standout moments from their internship was the Venture Makers Innovation Challenge done with Western Sydney Airport, one of Launch Pad’s largest and most dynamic activations of the year.
All three found themselves at the centre of the action, helping to coordinate logistics and engage participants.
"It was something I didn’t expect at all because we literally were at an airport. But it turned out to be quite productive. We made reels, helped with managing the event — it was a good experience"
Sana Singh
Anthony recalled the energy and scale of the day:
“Just seeing all the students there, partaking and really engaged in what they were doing was such a good sight. It was one of the biggest events we all did.”
What could have been chaos became a crash course in problem-solving and teamwork. As Samanda, the host, reminded them:
“You were thrown in the deep end… and we’re really grateful you got to be part of it.”
Lessons Beyond the Classroom
Beyond event logistics and marketing, the internship taught lessons that went deeper — about leadership, adaptability, and confidence.
“I think it’s a really good experience. It gave opportunities to gain more experience doing business, startup pitching, improving leadership and communication skills.”
Sana Singh
“It was definitely tiring — we worked around 12 hours — but it also felt really good to be part of an event like that. I was like, wow, we just did that. We just pulled that off.” Stated Anthony.
Their shared reflection was clear: the internship wasn’t just about tasks; it was about transformation.
Building Confidence and Finding Their Voice
By the end of their time at Launch Pad, each intern walked away with something uniquely personal. For Elisa, the biggest takeaway was confidence — especially as an international student learning to express herself in a new environment.
“To be honest, I was so shy because of my English. But when I came here, I had the opportunity to talk more and improve my English as well. I used to feel ashamed because some people judged my accent, but now — I don’t really care what they think anymore.”
Elisa Phuong
Her words are a reminder that growth often comes not from perfection, but from the courage to show up and try.
Looking Ahead: Graduation and Beyond
As the episode wrapped up, the interns were asked to sum up “what’s next” in one word. Their answers captured both excitement and gratitude.
“Graduation,” Anthony said simply, smiling. “After this, my time at uni will end… but hopefully opportunities here still stay open or at least close by.”
Elisa’s answer — “Confidence” — spoke volumes about how far she had come.
The trio’s reflections highlight what Launch Pad stands for: a space where students can grow, connect, and discover their potential in real-world settings.
A Message for Future Interns
Internships are more than résumé lines — they’re opportunities to learn through experience, laughter, and a bit of chaos along the way.
For Elisa, Anthony, and Sana,
Launch Pad wasn’t just a workplace; it was a launching point.
Their story is a testament to how creativity, community, and courage can turn an ordinary internship into an extraordinary chapter of growth.
“It was so great — you can learn a lot from them too,” Elisa shared. “I’d recommend other students should work at Launch Pad.”
Elisha Phuong