Cory Walker grew up in Sheridan where, he admits, he never left until he came to UCA to attend school. Until he went to work at Zeteo, he did not like coffee. Can you believe that? Cory is this month’s Meet your Barista.
In spite of never leaving Sheridan as a child, Cory, like most of us, has a fondness for his hometown. Now he is learning more about who he is while studying in Conway.
Learn more about the things he loves to do including watching episodes of The Office, the person he most wants to be, and where he most wants to live.
My whole childhood was spent in Sheridan, Arkansas. While I may not be the typical country boy that came out of there (in fact, I’m not a country boy at all…) I do cherish the time and relationships that blossomed from my time there.
I’ve lived in Conway for the past two years finding direction for my life and attempting to disciple and love people to my full capacity. Conway has definitely been one of the biggest blessings of my life so far!
Cory Walker, Barista, Zeteo Coffee
Name: Cory Walker
Coffee Shop: Zetêo Coffee (Conway)
Age: 19
School/Status: University of Central Arkansas / Junior
Hometown: Sheridan, AR
What is one thing about you people would be surprised to know?
I did not enjoy coffee at all until I started working at the shop. I could not stand the thought of espresso going anywhere near me!
In reality, though, I think the biggest surprise is that I’m much funnier in real life than I appear on social media. Come to the shop and let me prove it to you. Haha!
What is your favorite thing to do in Conway?
I really enjoy riding bikes around town and playing music!
What is the one activity that you can get lost for hours doing?
I have gone full days doing nothing but watching and then rewatching The Office on Netflix.
How long have you been pulling shots?
I started at Zetêo in October of last year. Around 8 months.
What is your favorite part of the job?
Honestly, the coffee is great (of course it is, we use Onyx!), but I believe the people are my favorite part of the job. I love connecting with people from all over and being intentional with the conversations I have with them. It makes the job a lot more meaningful and makes specialty coffee a little less scary.
What is your favorite coffee brew method?
I love a good Aeropress!
What is your favorite drink on your coffee shop’s menu?
My favorite drink is the classic Iced Double Shot!
What is your favorite virtue?
Generosity.
What do you appreciate the most in your friends?
Honesty and the willingness to help however they can go a long way.
What is your idea of happiness?
My idea of happiness is found in the truth that Jesus is continually pursuing me in my brokenness. Because of that, I can hope for a better tomorrow, forget about the bad of yesterday, and be present in every hour today!
If not yourself, who would you be?
Chris Pratt
Where would you most like to live?
I would absolutely love to live in Portland, Oregon one day. Easily one of my favorite cities!
What is your ideal occupation?
I don’t have a specific job in mind, but I believe that a career that allows me to spend time with people, involves a team I could lead, and a space that allows me to help whoever I am with would be the greatest career I could ask for.
Wrapping it up
Go see Cory at Zeteo and order a classic Iced Double Shot, Cory’s favorite drink. Ask him more about the country life in Sheridan or just see what his hopes and reams are. Thanks for answering our questions, Cory!
Todd is a copywriter, content strategist, digital marketer and the Publisher for Conway Scene. He enjoys coffee from the local coffee shops, learning the stories of new friends, pro wrestling, and dirt track racing.