The chemical makeup of the average college student is about 25% stress, 25% water, and 50% caffeine. Rochester has no shortage of amazing cafes, but sometimes it can be hard to summon the time and energy to get off campus, even for a great cup of coffee. Luckily, Naz has its own, on campus coffee shop that serves all your Starbucks favorites, so your next fix is only a quick walk across campus away. Millie’s, located right outside the library, is one of the go-to spots on campus, both for a coffee (or tea) and for studying. The best part? Millie’s takes dining dollars, the declining balance that comes with your meal plan, so you won’t have to spend the last of your precious cash on a latte.
As a coffee connoisseur myself, I’m partial to my favorite dark roast blend, made fresh by my Keurig in my dorm the moment I get up, but I’ll never say no to a second (or third) cup during the day, especially if I need a pick-me-up. After three years running on Millie’s I know just what to get to face whatever I’m dealing with that day.
When my to-do list is a mile long, Cold Brew Coffee or Classic Iced Coffee. True, winters in Rochester can get a little chilly, but I’ve never been one to let the season dictate my beverage choice. I love iced coffee, so getting a cup has always been a great motivator when I really have to hit the books. Plus, it doesn’t get cold after a little while like hot coffee does, so I can get a large (venti in Starbucks speak) and sip it through the entirety of my study session.
When I’m stressed, Hot Chocolate. One the other hand, when my mind is going a mile a minute, the last thing is need is a super caffeinated coffee. Hot chocolate has such a warm, soothing taste that always brings me back down to earth when I have a lot on my plate and need to focus or reorganize. Add a little whipped cream on top and suddenly life is alright again.
When I’m in a rut, Shaken Iced Tea. I’m not really a tea person, never have been and likely never will. The few flavors that I like are good, but if I want a drink I always tend to reach for coffee. Naz has no shortage of fun activities and opportunities to partake in when you need a break, but sometimes the general routine of class, work, homework, sleep, repeat can get a bit grueling. Changing something little, like my Millie’s order always seem to add a bit of excitement to my day when I need it most.
When I want to treat myself, Vanilla Bean Frappuccino. As much as I hate to admit it, this drink is definitely a guilty pleasure. It’s basically pure sugar with whipped cream on top, so I try not to get one too often, but when I ace that test or finally submit a huge project, it’s the perfect reward.
My go-to, Caramel Macchiato. Sometimes you just want a fancy coffee, simple as that. This is my favorite drink to get at Starbucks, on and off campus, and my default choice when I’m in the mood for a midday coffee, but not celebrating or compensating. Sometimes in September or April, when it’s a little warmer I’ll switch things up and get it iced, but I’m definitely partial to the hot version.
Millie’s is such a great addition to the Nazareth campus, and the central location makes it easy to pick up a pick-me-up regardless of where you’re heading. Just try not to spend all your dining dollars in the first week!