It's Not About What You Know, But Who You Know

Caribou Coffee Has Been The Best Job And The Worst Job I’ve Ever Had

By Morgan Krause

Being a Caribou Coffee barista has its perks and its downfalls just like any other job. Crazy co-workers, friendly customers, and the pure joy of making someone’s day with a cup of coffee are just a few of the many delights that go along with the job. It all started at the Keg n’ Cork, through my mom and her many connections throughout Bemidji.


My mom, sister, and I were waiting for my aunt to celebrate her birthday. I had yet to meet Julie, but of course she knew my mom. They immediately greeted each other with smiles and friendly conversation. I was not paying much attention and tuned out the conversation until my mom asked that fateful question; “How’s business at Caribou these days?” Julie quickly responded by saying, “I won’t be there much longer. My husband is supposed to get a job on the pipeline so I had to put my two months in considering I’m the manager.” With the conversation catching my attention, I was eager to ask if the company was at all looking to hire on any new employees. I was told by Julie to turn in an application and she would probably hire me. Having no previous “real job” experience before hand, I was eager for the phone call telling me I had landed an interview.

Days and days went by and still no call. I was starting to get nervous and was even wondering if she would call at all. I was sitting in class when I felt my phone buzzing in my pocket. As much as I wanted to answer, doing so would result in me getting my phone taken away. The wait to hear the news drove me crazy; all I could focus on was whether or not I got the interview. Finally school ended and I could check my messages. Julie had called and a huge relief was lifted from my chest, she wanted me in as soon as possible to sit down and have a chat.

I had one goal on my mind and that was getting to Caribou as quickly as possible. While opening the door, the smell of fresh espresso drinks and ground coffee filled my senses. It felt different walking into Caribou today than it had at other times. Today was special and I knew that whatever Julie was a bout to say was in some way going to be in my favor. I was invited to the back room by another employee and was told to just chill out and wait for her to come. The minutes seemed to take forever and the waiting was starting to get the best of me when she walked in. “Welcome to your new job at Caribou Coffee” was the first thing Julie said. I was shocked! I at least thought she would want to further interview me to make sure I was right for the position. Overjoyed with a slue of emotions I finally had an honest job and was eager to start. Without giving much direction, she gave me my first task of being to work on Saturday morning by 6:00 am. It was an early start, but I couldn’t complain, she had given me the gift of a job.

I started my job and, in time, Julie eventually left the company. I never realized it, but she made the world of a difference to me by working at Caribou Coffee. She had an infectious personality, an amazing work ethic, and most of all was a joy to work with. Losing her changed Caribou and not for the better. It’s a shame that the store hasn’t done well since she left but I’m one of the fortunate few people left that had the pleasure to work with her. If it wasn’t for Julie, I wouldn’t have the job I do today and I will always be grateful to her for that.