As a junior in college, I have noticed just how much of an impact coffee has on college life and the daily routines of students. Coffee is a huge part of college life for many students. Whether it’s getting an iced coffee before class, studying at a coffee shop, or grabbing coffee to study all night, it has become a normal part of the college routine. For some students, coffee is something they need to get through a busy day, while for others, it can be more about staying with the trend. Coffee culture is everywhere. Friends are always asking to grab coffee after class, discussing where everyone likes their coffee from: Starbucks? Dunkin? 7Brew? It’s something that stood out to me recently, so I decided to do some research and reflect on it.
I’ve recently read an article, “How coffee shapes life on college campuses. CompleteEra.” It discussed coffee and its culture. The article states several reasons why coffee is so popular in college. First, it states its convenience on campus; coffee shops are often located near dorms and lecture halls, making it easy for students to grab a quick pick-me-up. The article also brings up how it’s a social experience–how coffee shops serve as meeting spots for students to study, collaborate, or unwind after classes. And then, obviously, the energy boost: the caffeine helps with late-night studying and pulling all-nighters.Â
Research suggests that moderate coffee consumption can enhance cognitive function, making it valuable for students. However, the effects vary depending on individual tolerance and usage patterns. Caffeine is a stimulant that increases alertness and reaction time, which can be beneficial for studying, but excessive consumption can lead to jitters, anxiety, or even sleep deprivation. Finding the right balance is key to maximizing productivity without compromising health. Ultimately, coffee can be a powerful tool for college students, but knowing when enough is enough can make all the difference.Â
Before college, I never realized how much a simple cup of coffee could connect to my everyday life. Yes, I am one of those people who cannot function without a cup of coffee, but I limit myself to one a day. I only drink one cup of coffee a day because I enjoy the energy it gives me, but I also want to be mindful of my health and avoid consuming too much caffeine.
I usually make coffee at home, whether it’s from my Keurig or cold brew. But on certain days, I like to treat myself to either Starbucks or Dunkin. A typical debate here at the University of Alabama would be “who has the best coffee”? While I may have a favorite coffee shop, I don’t think the location is what makes coffee important to me; it is more about having something I enjoy as part of my daily routine.Â
In high school, it wasn’t really common to see others with coffee, and the majority of my friends back home don’t drink coffee. So now I always enjoy a nice little coffee run! Social media definitely helps with the trend aspect of coffee, especially when Starbucks shows advertisements for their seasonal flavors or when people post pictures of their favorite drinks. Seeing these posts can make people want to try new drinks or visit certain coffee shops just because they are popular. I never expected a simple cup of coffee to become such a small but memorable part of my college experience.Â