CrandellStarbucksObservations

I chose to observe people at Starbucks for this part of the Clue assignment. Starbucks is located on campus inside the library. When you first walk in there are tables and chairs to your right and left and straight ahead is where they take orders. There is also a lounge area connected to Starbucks that has comfy chairs, sofas, and just a few bigger tables and chairs. As I observed, I noticed that in-between class times it would become more crowded and quite busy. Most people would just leave after they got their drink - probably heading to another class. Some students sat and did homework for other classes and many had their laptops with them. There were also a few girls that came in and sat in the lounge area and just talked. I know from experience it is a great area to catch up with friends who have different schedules or have moved off campus. I have also used the area to study or do group work and the caffeine boost is always a bonus. In general, I feel that the time of day in which I observed made the atmosphere and overall college culture feel rushed and less relaxed. People just came in, ordered a drink and then left. Some would even leave without ordering when the line was long. I also took into account that it is the beginning of the semester. I feel many students have just started the substance of their course material and probably don’t find in necessary to go to the library/Starbucks to get work or homework completed. I feel Starbucks tries to create a calm and tranquil area for people to work, study, or meet with friends, but in reality it cannot escape the hustle and bustle of the college community.