While I don’t consider myself a coffee connoisseur, I was able to immerse myself in the world of coffee this past week. Upon entering the world’s largest Starbucks off of Michigan Ave. I was immediately surrounded by the comforting rich aroma of roasting coffee beans. Exploring all four levels revealed a restaurant, coffee bar, and plenty of seating space. I was also able to learn a bit more about the process of roasting coffee beans. I spoke to one of the roasters specifically creates Starbucks coffee. She explained that each coffee was unique in its additives and roasting times used to prepare the beans. With her assistance, I was able to find a Costa Rican honey-processed coffee roast that fit my student-budget. Additionally, proceeds from this specific coffee went to help the Costa Rican farmers who grew and harvested the beans.

I’m entering my fourth week working the night shift, and the enticing benefits of coffee to help me get through a 12-hour shift are becoming slightly harder to resist. Conveniently located in our building, the preferred choice of coffee and favorite of the nurses on my floor is Dunkin’ Donuts. Someone on the floor usually makes a Dunkin’ run around midnight for anyone who wants something. I have been able to avoid the coffee addiction this far in my life, but by the end of April I might make some more room for coffee in my daily/nightly routine. Overall, visiting the Starbucks Reserve Roastery made me realize just how much craftsmanship goes into an excellent cup of coffee. I hope to bring that much craftsmanship and appreciation into my own work.

Thanks for reading and I look forward to sharing more of my experiences with you all!