When you drink as much coffee as I do, you can’t afford to dump too much milk and sugar in it. Because of this, I have adopted a love of black coffee. Obviously, I desperately need coffee to survive college, so I now have at least five go-to's for when I am in dire need for that wonderful caffeine buzz.

1. Marie Catrib’s

My all time favorite. There is usually a wait for tables on weekends, but you can grab a colorful mug and have unlimited coffee until you are seated. I usually end up drinking at least five cups when I come here, but the content and jittery feeling lasts the rest of the day.

2. Hall Street Bakery

I was surprised by this one. Not only are the baked goods beautiful and amazing, but their coffee is also on point. Put the two together and your taste buds are in for a good time.

3. Ferris

Thankfully this type of coffee is sold at the gas station right next to my house among many other places in town. Quality, local coffee for cheap is quite the dream, especially for college students!

4. Madcap

Also local, also tasty. Madcap is for the intense coffee lover as it can be rather strong. It is carried by a handful of local coffee shops, so there are multiple opportunities to try it!

5. Wolfgang’s

It is worth getting up before sunrise to snag the Hazlenut coffee and the early-bird special with some good friends. Refills are free, so drink up. And don't forget to grab a to-go cup.

As finals are fast approaching, don't forget to hit up the best local coffee spots for that much needed caffeine fix. Fear not if you are afraid of black coffee: all of these places also have tasty lattes and the like.