We trekked back to blustery Northwestern after a scant three-week Winter Break, but in that short period Norris had transformed from a hard hat construction zone to a glimmering Starbucks – complete with a pastry case and full menu. The rush is dying down, but it’s Starbucks baristas like Marshall Riley who will be there to help combat the sleepless nights that are sure to come this quarter.

PLAY: Do you like being considered a barista?

Marshall Riley: Not really. It makes it seem like I’m designated to that one spot. I’d like to be called a floater, maybe because I like to do other stuff, too.

PLAY: So what’s your job?

MR: I’m a topper. I top off drinks, put the finishing touches and the tops on them and hand them off to customers. I also greet the customers and restock the topping supplies.

PLAY: Did you work during the day Starbucks opened?

MR: Yes.

PLAY: How was that?

MR: We were giving away free drinks, and that was real hectic. There was a long line outside to the door downstairs. We were pumping out coffee all day – but we did it.

PLAY: Was that your first day working at Starbucks, as well?

MR: Well, it was the first day we were open that I worked. We had been training over Winter Break, but that was our first day having that many people. Officially, we were still in training, which was why we were giving out free drinks. We were getting used to customers.

PLAY: How were the customers?

MR: They were nice, mostly students and teachers. I know some of them because I used to work at the Sbarro’s (in Norris) so I’m familiar with faces. They’re polite and very patient. That line was long, and they were waiting for their free drinks.

PLAY: What made you decide to work at Starbucks?

MR: To experience something different – that’s the main reason. At Sbarro’s I knew mostly everything, so I wanted to make a change.

PLAY: What’s the hardest drink to make?

MR: Well, actually, there isn’t one for me. I’m a pro now. (Laughs.) I’m trying to think of one but I can’t. I’m comfortable making all the drinks, but I’d say a venti caramel Macchiato. Some people like a triple shot of espresso and extra caramel, and that can get hard.

PLAY: What’s your favorite drink?

MR: The strawberry cream Frappuccino blended with the whipped cream on top.

PLAY: No coffee?

MR: I’m not really a coffee drinker, no espresso. I stick to cr