Personal Experience

Initially when we were told to share and describe a personal experience with the class, I drew blanks.  After some thinking I jotted down 2 places:

1. MacCracken’s – my favorite pub off Marietta Square
2. Cool Beans – my favorite coffeehouse, also off Marietta Square

As luck would have it, I actually visited Cool Beans with my friend on Saturday.  While I was there, I took the time to think about my physical, cognitive, and emotional experience of the space.  Through my physical experience of it, I know what this place looks like through and through.  I am familiar with the artwork for sale on the walls – as much of it has never been sold during the 5 years I’ve walked through its doors!  The artwork has been added to, some have left, but it mostly remains unchanged.  Where I walk in, order, and pick up my drink is second-nature to me now.  The condiment counter has never moved and when it’s missing napkins or straws, I know where to find them or who to ask for more. I also know to always bring headphones with me as it can get rather noisy inside and in the winter, always have a coat on hand!

Admittedly, I struggle to pinpoint my cognitive experience at Cool Beans.  I recognize that it is a place of business, a coffeehouse, located 30 minutes away from where I live now.  I could easily visit the 10+ Starbucks that I pass along the way, but I know that the two are completely different.  I enjoy Starbucks, but it’s not Cool Beans – I will visit Cool Beans just to partake in relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Thirdly, my emotional experience of Cool Beans is a nice one.  It’s a place that I visit and feel connected to.  I know a lot of the customers and employees by name and many will stop and chat with me.  I know tiny stories about them and they of me – I feel a great sense of community, and at times, a sense of ownership.  I feel happy, comfortable, and accepted while I am there.

[Image taken by me]

Filed under: Environment, personal