Year: Freshman
Major: Elementary Education
Hometown: Newtown, Pennsylvania
Jacqueline may look like a normal Penn State student but the truth is, she is so much more. In fact, she is the sole reason you are able to make it to your 8 A.M. on Mondays or function at all on Fridays. Though she may just be a Starbucks barista to some, to us she is an angel sent from the college life gods.
We had a few questions for Jacqueline to find out what the life of a HUB Starbucks barista is like at Penn State.
HC: So why did you decide to work at the Starbucks in the HUB, a.k.a. one of the busiest places at Penn State?
JJ: I’ve always liked Starbucks and wanted to work there. It really worked out for me because my older sister is a barista there, so it was a great way for me to get a part-time job.
HC: What is the most difficult thing about working for the Starbucks in the HUB?
JJ: Can I only pick one thing? There are a few things that are really rough: long a$$ lines, Monday morning lines and when there are a lot of people in line in general.
HC: What is something you wish you could tell all of the people waiting?
JJ: I promise we are really going as fast as we can! And if your drink is ever wrong please tell us! There are a lot of moments where things can be miscommunicated.
HC: Like people’s names, for example?
JJ: Exactly! We are trying to get your drink out as fast as possible. Your name could have been written incorrectly at the register or we’re just trying to call out drinks quickly. Sometimes “Daniel” becomes “Danielle.”
HC: What do you enjoy about working at Starbucks?
JJ: The people I work with. Your co-workers make all the difference, and it really helps when someone can add humor to a stressful situation.
HC: Is it difficult balancing school, work, clubs and a social life?
JJ: Yes, it was a huge adjustment coming to college and being thrown into everything at once, but it really taught me time management.
HC: What is your favorite Starbucks drink?
JJ: I have too many!
HC: Top three?
JJ: Vanilla Latte, Passion Tea Lemonade and Iced Coffee with caramel and soy milk.