The healthy balance between independence and knowing I can turn to any of the employees when I needed help. Under standard company operating procedures and the mentorship of my boss, I was able to make decisions that I saw best fit the needs and goals of the projects we were working on.
What I wish was different
More regular, fast-paced work. For most of the time, I felt the influx of meaningful work came in waves, with more periods of slow, downtime, than fast-paced and demanding work. However, in the last half of my summer, things definitely picked up and I always knew I had something to work on for all my 8 hours that day.
Advice
Be upfront and honest especially with topics or processes you're not familiar with. Everyone is willing to take the time and explain things in a way that's understandable and meaningful. Get to know everyone as well, because sooner or later you'll have to work with them for one of your assignments.