It is obvious how popular Starbucks has become in American culture. They seem to be on every corner. But in truth, Starbucks isn’t just a big corporation coffee shop chain; to some people a Starbucks Coffee Shop is much more than that. Believe it or not, every Starbucks, unique in design, means something different to many. To some, it’s a place of peace. To others it is a place to study, read, work or to just enjoy a cup of coffee in a relaxing environment. To others, it’s the ideal place to hang out- a perfect spot for a first date, or a place where a friendship flourished.

Being the older sister to two younger brothers, my house was always chaotic and loud. Studying for a big test, or even trying to complete a simple homework page was always a struggle. One day I decided to pack up my stuff and drive to my nearest Starbucks and it was basically life changing. Every detail of the environment made my concentration and productivity levels fly through the roof. Their playlist, the smell of coffee, and being surrounded by people working was perfect. From that day on I ventured to Starbucks for everything that required concentration and the results showed. I graduated Summa Cum Laude and got into my dream school. I guess I can say I owe it to Starbucks for some of my endeavors.

Now, my Starbucks story isn’t nearly as touching as my two friends, Cameron and Kelcey’s. “My friendship with my best friend was made at Starbucks”, says Kelcey. Cameron and Kelcey would spend hours in their favorite Starbucks spending time together. They spent so much time at that Starbucks that they even became friends with the workers. “Eventually I went so often that I got to know a lot of the employees. It started off as small talk while they would make my coffee but soon enough I ended up having normal conversations with them," Cameron explained. They have made countless memories at their Starbucks, ones that they will surely cherish forever. It sounds pretty extraordinary: the fact that a simple Starbucks Coffee shop fostered a friendship that will last forever.

So next time you find yourself getting a cup of coffee at the local Starbucks, know that you could be in someone’s sacred place.