Where Ideas Come Alive: My First Steps at CRI

What if your next big idea wasn’t limited by a lack of tools, space, or support?

Photo: Ebere Onyia is an intern at the CRI as part of the MALA program at Memorial University of Newfoundland.

Imagine having access to a place where a simple sketch can become a prototype, a creative thought can become a business venture, and curiosity is met with the resources to explore it. That’s exactly what I discovered when I walked into the Centre for Research and Innovation (CRI), Corner Brook, Newfoundland for the first time. My name is Ebere Petra Onyia, and I’m from Nigeria. As a Master’s student in Applied Literary Arts (MALA) at Memorial University of Newfoundland, I’m excited to begin my internship at CRI.

Over time, I’ve noticed a visible gap in higher education, particularly within the arts and humanities. While STEM programs often provide students with co-ops, laboratories, clinical placements, and structured internships, humanities students rarely receive the same level of experiential learning. Many humanities programs continue to focus primarily on theory, reading, and writing, without offering enough opportunities to apply those skills in community settings, cultural organizations, or public-facing projects. As a result, there’s a persistent misconception that humanities degrees are less practical or less connected to meaningful careers.

One of the reasons I chose the MALA program is because it challenges that misconception. The program intentionally combines classroom learning with hands-on, experiential opportunities that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. My internship at CRI is one of those opportunities, and I’m looking forward to learning, growing, and contributing in meaningful ways.

Walking into CRI for the first time, one phrase immediately came to mind: a fabrication hub. It felt like I had stepped into a place where ideas become reality. More than just a workspace, CRI is a vibrant hub of creativity, innovation, and collaboration. From digital fabrication and laser cutting to woodworking, metalworking, textile creation, podcast production, and print services, the centre provides the tools, expertise, and support needed to transform ideas into tangible projects.

What impressed me most wasn’t simply the technology or the equipment, it was the possibilities the space represents. Coming from a humanities background, I’m excited to explore how creativity, technology, and research intersect to solve real-world problems. Whether you’re a Memorial University student, a College of the North Atlantic student, an entrepreneur, or a community member with an idea worth pursuing, CRI creates an environment where curiosity is encouraged, innovation is nurtured, and ideas are given the opportunity to grow. It’s the kind of place where a simple concept can evolve into a working prototype.

As someone who enjoys communication, storytelling, and creative problem-solving, I’m particularly excited about the opportunity to contribute to CRI’s work. During my internship, I hope to support marketing and communications initiatives, assist with podcast production, help organize workshops and events, and contribute wherever my skills can make a meaningful impact. At the same time, I believe this experience will broaden my perspective, challenge my thinking, and introduce me to new ways of creating impact beyond the classroom.

As I begin this journey, I’m especially looking forward to learning from the talented team at CRI, including Mery Perez, Neil Nordeje and Mauricio Rodriguez, whose passion for innovation and community engagement has already made a lasting first impression. I’m excited to learn from their expertise while contributing to the important work happening at the centre.

If you’ve ever had an idea you’ve wanted to bring to life, or if you’re simply curious about what innovation looks like in practice, I encourage you to visit CRI and explore the endless possibilities it offers. Whether you’re building a business, developing a class project, learning a new skill, or simply exploring your creativity, CRI is a place where ideas are welcomed and supported. I hope you’ll follow along as I share my experiences throughout this internship. I’m excited to see where this journey leads, and I can’t wait to bring you along for the ride.

Here’s to an exciting internship ahead!