I’m writing this essay from my favorite coffee shop

Whenever I have assignments, tests, or projects to do for school, my first instinct is to go to my local coffee shop, Insomnia (in Murrayhill). My cozy booth along the window in the corner is where I have drafted a multitude of essays, read books for English class, or even tutored for chemistry. In fact, I am writing this article right now from this booth.

Illuminated by the warmth of antique lampshades, surrounded by the subliminal chatter, and kept warm by a pumpkin spice chai latte, my local coffee shop provides the ideal environment for grinding out my assignments or reviewing for final exams.

Located only five minutes from my house, I often run into other classmates and friends with the same objective. We typically merge tables and partake in our focus together. Bonded by our shared determination to get work done, we almost positively peer pressure each other to stay attentive and productive. However, we take the occasional break to chat or have a pastry and strengthen a friendship in the process.

Gathering here cultivates a coffee shop study culture that is incredibly prevalent throughout high school. During finals season (or right now with college applications), I frequently find myself going to study with friends, finding solace in facing daunting tasks or an overwhelming workload in uplifting company.

Further adding to the warmth of the environment is my familiarity with the baristas. As I frequent the coffee shop multiple times a week, I’ve become accustomed to the bright faces of my local baristas. Whether it’s chatting about our days, getting to know how their family members are doing, or hearing about their weekend plans, I cherish fostering relationships with them.

Also, adorning the walls lies local art, as the coffee shop supports local artists by displaying their art and offering it for sale. They provide these artists recognition and appreciation for their work. While I treasure the familiarity of a particular painting accompanying me when I study, I feel great pride for the artist when it disappears, knowing it sold and found its rightful, permanent home.

Although it seems the typical demographic of Insomnia is high school students, I know many other members of my community congregate here. I’ve seen middle school students hanging out, coworkers working on a corporate proposal together, or elderly friends catching up.

This coffee shop serves as a center of exchange. I watch the exchange of knowledge from all the group projects and tutoring. I witness the exchange of opinions of a couple trying each other’s drinks. I hear the exchange of stories as people divulge the happenings of their life with their friends. It further intertwines the neighborhood by facilitating human interaction and accommodating so many different people.

Whether it’s by providing a welcoming study environment, recognizing the talents of neighborhood artists, or housing friendly conversation, my local coffee shop connects the community to foster unity.

Anya Kennedy is a 12th grader at Jesuit High School. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, swimming, hiking, and reading. She enjoys working at a preschool, tutoring, and babysitting.