For those of you who don't know, White Rhino is a castle where dreams come true. All the servants and guests are dressed in ball-room attire 24/7, and a heavenly orchestra entertains at all hours...okay, so, it's actually just a coffee shop. But it isn't any old coffee shop. White Rhino is somewhat of a local crown where I come from. For Dallas Baptist specifically, it's a go-to hangout spot. With its darling location nestled on a quaint street near the trees and friendly banter between barista and customer, White Rhino is a relaxing location for the student who needs to unwind. However, if you're like me and are somewhat of regular, there's a few inevitable thoughts that go swirling through your mind after you darken their doors and sip on your Snickerdoodle latte.
1. Should I Say Hi to Them?
One does not simply go to White Rhino without seeing a fellow student. The question is, do I interrupt their study sesh/coffee date to be polite? Or do I pretend I never saw them at all...
2. Is That My Textbook?
Like I said, we often go there to study. Sometimes, you end up seeing people from your class studying for the same assignment, but you've never talked to them before and don't know if you should start now. #1 strikes again.
3. When Am I Going To Get Asked On a Date Here?
There's always at least one: some ridiculously cute couple on their second or twentieth date, too busy laughing and staring into each other's eyes to appreciate the latte art resting atop their beverage. They're probably both music majors who will end up writing a song together, or serenading one another on a swing by Bush Pond. At any rate, it's disgusting. Mostly because a guitar-playing, DBU baseball player hasn't asked you to White Rhino yet.
4. Are Those Girls Actually Wearing the Same Outfit?
Hunter boots, black leggings, a Columbia jacket, a Kendra Scott necklace, a Lilly Pullitzer planner, and a blanket scarf is all you need to complete the look as a typical female White Rhino customer. Some of us wonder while we creepily people watch behind our laptop, do they mind that they're all wearing the same thing?
5. How Much Caffeine Is In This?
The drinks are always delicious. But is there enough espresso to help me pull an all-nighter? That is the question.
6. I'm So Artsy
Wow, I mean, you still got a double fat-free vanilla latte, but you didn't go to Starbucks like all the other white girls. Instead, you came with all the other more artsy white girls. This place is hashtag authentic. New year new you.
7. Is This Good Enough For Instagram?
Did you actually think I was going to get my coffee in a mug and not take a picture of it? You thought wrong. But which filter do I use...
8. I Should Have Brought My Bible
There's always at least one person there holier than you who brought their Bible and is pouring over the book of Romans while you listen to dirty pop music and procrastinate, you sinner.
9. Is That Barista Married?
Some of those peeps working behind the counter are lookers, let's be real. Do they notice your dazzling smile as you order, or are you just another face in the crowd of sleep-deprived sorority girls?
10. I'm So Lucky To Be Here
You go to a beautiful school with all kinds of attractions nearby to explore. When all else fails, White Rhino is always there to recharge you, make you feel awkward around people you don't want to talk to, and provide you the pretty scenery outside.
Share with a freshman student to save a life.
