Feeling Comfortable

I don’t usually drink coffee but I wanted to try a new drink from Starbucks. I ordered a tall (aka short) Cacao Protein Blended Cold Brew. It sounded fancy and good so I didn’t see a reason why not to order it… until the barista looked at me confused. He asked me, “are you sure you want that one?” After explaining to him that I usually go for sweet drinks, he told me that I probably won't like it. However, he assured me in the case that I don’t like it, he’ll make me a new one for free. Honestly, I wouldn't lose anything so I went with it. When I picked up my fancy drink, I took one sip and it was one of the most disgusting things I have ever tasted! The barista saw the face I made, laughed and began to make a double chocolate chip frappe for me. Anyway, this could have easily happened at any other Starbucks but that’s not where I’m headed. The staff here, at every angle, is welcoming, on your side and eager to help. Another instance I had was meeting Dr. Jennifer Hackney-Price. Before I transferred to ASU West, I had briefly met her at a STEM Open House and I immediately liked her. She is an enthusiastic, kind, intelligent and awesome person that I am grateful to know. A couple of weeks ago, we had a one-on-one conversation about her career and she gave me genuine advice. She has also helped me throughout my project and reassured me that it’s okay to make mistakes. I truly appreciate her because she doesn’t tell me she cares, she shows me. She is someone who has made an impact in my life and I have known her for less than 4 months! Now, that’s not to say she is the only one who cares for her students, there are others who are as happy to help. A few others that I can think of are Pamela Marshall and Jennifer Broatch. With that said, the people (students, professors, staff, etc.) on West campus are so welcoming, assuring and reliable. Since I started, I have not had a bad experience with anyone. Honestly, I feel welcomed here and I am happy to say that I am a part of ASU!

Figure 1. The entrance of Arizona State University West Campus.

Figure 2. A water fountain located outside the University Center Building.