It’s 8:30 a.m. My alarm screeches next to my ear, alerting me that it’s time for my day to start. I don’t open my eyes yet; I mentally review the endless list of events, activities, and assignments that I must complete today. Four classes back to back, two meetings, an essay to write, an exam to study for, and only around 10 minutes to breathe. My eyes flutter open, and a groan escapes my lips. There is only one thing that can get me through the day.

When I was 13, the only type of coffee that I drank was a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino from Starbucks. I didn’t even realize that there wasn’t even any actual coffee in the drink. However, holding the trendy Starbucks cup in my hand and taking “cool” selfies made me want to continue to title myself as a “coffee addict.”

By the time I reached my junior and senior year of high school, I had moved on to more sophisticated drinks. The Mocha Frappuccino with an extra shot of espresso was enough to get caffeine flowing through my veins, and sometimes, when I was feeling a little daring, I even purchased the steaming hot Pumpkin Spice Latte. The extra jolt of energy was enough to make me feel like an absolute hipster.

Now that I am a sophomore in college, my levels of coffee addiction have spiked beyond belief. After hopping out of bed, throwing on some comfortable clothes, and quickly dabbing on some mascara, the only thing that’s on my mind is downing a delicious cup of coffee. I run towards the nearest dining hall, cutting the freshmen in line in order to get my fix. I grab a cup and pour, watching as the steam bounces off the bottom of the cup before fluttering into the air. The bitter scent washes over me, and I can barely contain my excitement. I add a splash (and when I say splash, I mean the absolute tiniest amount possible) of creamer and happily stir. I never add sugar, and I quickly pop the lid on the cup and take a slow sip.

Absolutely delightful.

From the first sip, I know it’s going to be an amazing day. From the progression of my kiddy drink Starbucks days to my almost black coffee runs, coffee has become a daily necessity. I cannot even imagine starting each morning without the steaming hot, dark brown liquid. I will drink it all: the most intricate drink at Starbucks, the tasty iced drinks from the local shop, Common Grounds, and even the most basic cup brewed from home in the mornings. The tastes may vary, but the results are the same. I am alert, awake, and highly satisfied.

Some of my friends say they don’t like coffee, and my jaw drops to the floor every time. It is impossible to understand how one could dislike the strength that it provides. To those who say that coffee is too bitter: my inner, natural sweetness is enough to balance the sharp flavor of my favorite beverage. Every sip of coffee is like bungee jumping off of a building. Every gulp is like a whirlpool of excitement pulsing through my veins. Every single completed cup is like pushing me headfirst into an unknown world that is fascinating, dangerous, and worthwhile.

It’s 8:30 a.m. It’s way too early to function, I am mentally and physically exhausted, and I have a long day ahead of me. There Is only one solution.

Coffee, darling, here I come.