Loved the work environment. Was able to handle a few different projects each week and got to switch between computer and hands-on work every day. Design work is very open-ended. Also free lunch every other Monday!
Cons
Due to the nature of the work, the deadlines can be tight. The work is engaging but can be demanding.
Notch offers an exhilaratingly fast-paced environment. My experience of navigating through numerous available projects was nothing short of amazing. Despite some concepts extending beyond my usual field, the fantastic team I was a part of consistently shared their work in an engaging manner, providing valuable guidance throughout. While there were moments of stress, the small Notch team was definitely strong and amazing to work with.
Cons
It can be quite stressful. Never was there unrealistic expectation, however, out of sheer self-desire to see projects succeed it became really easy to over-invest in some of the projects.
As a co-op, first time or otherwise, you'll learn a lot in a very short time. Also, working here exposes you to emergent technologies, and getting to work on something novel is an invaluable experience that is hard to find at larger companies.
Cons
You'll find the same downsides as most startups, but they can be more prominent because of how small this company is. There are a lot of things to do, and not many people to do them, so working longer hours is somewhat inevitable.