When I was younger I had always wanted a job. At this point, I can not remember if my motivation was responsibility or money, but regardless when I was sixteen I was finally free to work wherever my heart desired . . . and wherever someone would actually hire me.
Since then, I have worked many retail, internship, and management jobs and have a pretty impressive resume when it comes to experience in many areas. However, the one thing I had limited to no experience in was quick food service. Customer service, sales and management was my expertise so I would always pick that over anything else that was available. But now, going into my senior year (second year at Fredonia), I realized that my previous year had been somewhat boring. I decided that my open schedule was due to the fact that I did not have a job, not including night desk attendant. I knew it would be a challenge, but I decided to apply at Starbucks, and evidently got the job! Working in food service, especially in a fast-paced environment, can be stressful but very rewarding. I would like to say in my time here, so far, I have learned a lot that I would not have learned otherwise.
Never be afraid to ask questions. I still have to ask questions at least once a shift, which is completely okay! Everyone is still learning in one aspect or another, even experienced baristas. This made me think about myself outside of Starbucks and how I never fully engaged myself in classrooms, conversations or even relationships.
Don’t cry over spilled milk, literally. Mistakes are bound to happen anywhere so when it does, just brush it off and fix it. Messing up is part of learning and will help you grow as a person. It is definitely frustrating constantly correcting yourself and reconditioning what you thought was true, but once you come to a resolution, it’s probably one of the best feelings.
Respect and kindness goes a long way. It makes my entire day when a customer will actually treat me like a person and not a machine that makes their drink for them through a conversation, manners or just a smile! Just one little interaction with someone will make me a happier person, so spread the love!
Finally, try new things! My go to drink was alway a grande chai latte (no water!) but now I try a new drink every chance I get. Change is scary, but every little step you take in the right direction will make you a better person, even if that first step of change is trying out the green tea latte instead! Travel more, take a class that has nothing to do with your major, just experience all life has to offer.
I think it is important that everyone works a food service or even a retail job at some point. It gives you a new perspective on things you may not have had the right angle on and can really open your eyes. I love my job and everything that comes with it and hope that my perspective might make someone more aware and grow in the same ways that I did.