His day often starts at 2:45 a.m., and Jason Kennedy arrives at the Starbucks store that he manages in downtown Chicago by 4 a.m.
Such is Kennedy's grindliterallyas he has been working for Starbucks since July 2013, initially as a shift supervisor. He moved up to an assistant and is now a store manager. He now manages the day-to-day operations, such as scheduling and ordering. "I also work on partner development and their growth," said Kennedy, who is a coffee mastersomeone who "has studied the coffees offered at Starbucks, and I know which ones pair well with certain foods and how they taste. I then recommend to customers, answer any questions, or suggest something new."
Kennedy is working toward being a district manager.
"I love working for Starbucks because it is a company that stands for what it says," he said. "It gives back to communities; we help each other out as partners; there are numerous growth opportunities. I can make my store unique from other Starbucks stores; I love connecting with my customers and partners."
Kennedy also is an aspiring model who has been in shows in Michigan and Chicago.
"If the opportunity arises again, I would love to be in more," said Kennedy, who has been in shows locally with Moda Boutique. "The excitement and adrenaline as well as wearing awesome clothes has always fascinated me. It also helps me with my own style."
Kennedy also has a passion behind the camera. He has a Canon Rebel and shoots "anything and everything." He started out photographing his dad's flowers and it grew from there.
Kennedy worked for a school portrait company ( Lifetouch National School Studios ) for six years, and he now shoots architecture, animals, flowers and more. "I would love to get back into photographing people because I love when someone says they don't like to get their picture taken and then love how their pictures come out. I love capturing personality," he said.
Kennedy also is active in Chicago gay sports leagues, playing soccer, volleyball and softball. He used to play baseball and run track.
THE STATS
Age: "34
Neighborhood: "Andersonville
Hobbies: "Photography, sports ( volleyball, soccer, softball ), working out and painting
Relationship status: "Engaged
College: "Graduated in 2005 from Kentucky Christian University with a double major in Bible and Youth and Family Ministry; also has a certificate in photography from Lansing Community College
Favorite TV show: "Modern Family
Favorite pizza toppings: "Pepperoni, sausage, bacon, banana peppers, green onions and onions
Little-known fact: "I love horseback riding. I grew up with horses and we rode for pleasure and one day I hope to have one again."