Vantaggi
As stated above, SynTouch is a small company consisting of only about a dozen people. Everyone knows everyone, and the line between friends and coworkers gets pretty blurry. Very relaxed atmosphere for an intern. Had to be there for core hours (11-4), but the other 3 hours could be wherever you liked. Did some very interesting things, learned a lot about working in a professional environment as well as working with some fantastic technology. Excellent learning experience with excellent people. CEO would often come in and, after talking to the other employees, give me advice on my own projects. Absolutely brilliant man.
Svantaggi
Every once in a while there is a hint of infighting. Due to the close-knit nature of the employees, many expectations go unsaid. Management is minimal in this company, so my direct superior was more skilled in research than management. This led to somewhat unclear objectives, but I would take an inexperienced manager over a malicious one any day.