Working at Starbucks was one of the most interesting experiences of my entire life. In one year, I worked in three stores, in three states, under three completely different managements. Each experience was a combination of exhaustion and entertainment. That being said, the life of a barista is anything but conventional. Jokes (and secrets) amongst fellow Starbucks partners create a truly one-of-a-kind job. Now, a lot of people have written articles like this so my goal is to share some more unique confessions, because everyone knows, 9/10 times, we won’t give you light ice.

1. If we like what you came up with, we will more than likely make extra and try it afterwards.

Those little sample cups aren’t just for you. We really like trying customers creations, and suggesting our own to them.

2. Happy hour is anything but that.

This is especially true when things like “Frappy-hour” come around. Most stores only get one blender, if not two. If you’re coming through a drive through and expecting to get four different, customized frappucinos in regular time, you’re mistaken.

3. Seasonal syrups are in store (and in use by baristas) months before being released to the public.

Yeah, baristas really have it good here. Not only are syrups in wayyyy early, but they are also likely still there after taken off the menu. Never hesitate to ask if your favorite store still has your prized seasonal syrups. At one of my stores, we had pumpkin spice until April!

4. Mobile Order is a great concept, but timing can make it tricky.

Sometimes, during peak (for you muggles, that means rush hour) baristas forget to check the machine, it runs out of paper, or you show up a little earlier/later than expected. This could mean your drink is melted or not hot. And let’s be honest, if you ask us to remake it, you had time to stand in line in the first place.

5. We reek of coffee 24/7.

No matter how many times you wash your apron and work clothes, they will smell of coffee and so will you.

6. Tell us what you need and we will seriously do our best to make it happen.

Baristas will pretty much do anything to make sure you enjoy your drink and food. The most important thing to remember here is that baristas are human. Without their aprons, they look just like you. Speak with respect.

7. We don’t bake anything from scratch.

I’ve had customers ask if we could “just go in the back and make another one.” None of our food is made in-house. It comes to us frozen, is thawed for a given number of hours, and then served to customers. We can only pull a certain number of every food a day, so don’t be mad if we run out. It’s bad enough that none of Starbucks' food is fresh.

8. Not all stores recycle—or donate.

This one honestly upsets me. Starbucks makes a point of being a “green” company, but, in the end, the decision is up to the store manager. I really wish that every store was held to a higher standard with this.

9. You can buy whole bottles of syrup — and you’ll even get a pump!

There are even certain times of the month when the syrups go on sale. Seasonal syrups might cost more at times also. This is where the app comes in handy. Download the Starbucks app and you’ll automatically have access to more deals and promotions.

10. Regulars are like family.

I’ve had customers who come in one, two or even three times a day and order the exact same thing. Become a regular at a store not only by going in every day and ordering, but by having conversation with the partners. If you’re lucky, we might even comp your drink.