November 23 marks National Espresso Day, a celebration of the rich, energized beverage that is a staple for many students at East. This day shines a spotlight on caffeine consumption, a routine that fuels students as they balance school, work, and extracurriculars. From coffee runs to caffeine pills, students find creative ways to stay energized and productive. 

Caffeine habits among high school students vary widely. For some, it’s about the tradition of a favorite drink; for others, it is a necessary tool for focus and alertness.

Many students at East rely on a mix of coffee, energy drinks, and even caffeine pills. Sarah Polugari, a junior, shared her preference for an iced latte from Starbucks or Dunkin’.

“I don’t drink caffeinated drinks super often, but I usually get them three times a week on school days,” Polugari said. “I prefer coffee over energy drinks, but sometimes I grab a Celsius or Bubbler.”

Similarly, local café barista at Barnes & Noble Megan Petzke, a junior, noticed high school students gravitating toward seasonal drinks like the new Cran-Merry Orange Refresher. 

“Students usually know what they like and stick to their favorites,” Petzke said. “But during the winter, we see a lot of excitement for holiday drinks, especially when they come in after school to study.”

Timing plays a big role in caffeine consumption. Many students grab a coffee before school or after classes when they hit local cafés or libraries to study. Petzke mentioned that winter tends to bring more high schoolers into the café, likely due to the appeal of cozy, seasonal beverages.

For some students, caffeine isn’t just about flavor—it’s a lifeline for managing demanding schedules. Minha Fatima, a senior, takes caffeine pills to stay focused and energized.

“Caffeine 100% helps me stay alert and focused throughout the day,” Fatima said. “On days I have caffeine, I feel more energized and can do more at school and work. It’s especially helpful if I’m in a rush and need something quick.”

However, Fatima also acknowledged the potential downside of relying on caffeine.

“If I don’t take a pill, I might crash or struggle to stay awake. It would be hard to adjust if caffeine suddenly wasn’t available.”

As National Espresso Day approaches, students at East reflect on how their caffeine habits shape their daily lives. Whether it is through a perfectly brewed latte, a trendy energy drink, or a quick caffeine pill, these energizing options are a testament to the ways caffeine helps students navigate the busy world of high school.

For East’s caffeine lovers, the day is more than just a celebration—it is a recognition of how small rituals can make a big difference in productivity and focus.

Written by Juniors Syeda Zaidi and Gabby Maza. Edited by staff writers for Oswego East’s online news magazine The Howl.