Pandolfi learns leadership from workplace

Known as a longtime university establishment for the campus of James Madison University, the Cinnamon Bear Bakery and Deli  is a local shop owned by Jason McCready. It recently came under new management after the previous owner retired. However, the shop still offers the same atmosphere and good food that it did before. It was also a job opportunity for junior Santiago Pandolfi.

Pandolfi has worked at Cinnamon Bear for seven months, which is almost as long as the bakery has been in business. He originally took the job out of a simple need for one, but he later found that he enjoyed the bakery’s calming environment. It also proves to be convenient.

Pandolfi’s working hours do not interfere with school or extracurriculars that he is involved with. It’s very lenient on the employees, which is beneficial for any student.  

The main thing this job has taught Pandolfi is independence. He gets to learn new things, and then he learns how to do them on his own. This is a crucial skill for later in his life in almost any job he sets out to do, or for college.

“I’m learning some new things [and] new experiences. Before, I couldn’t make a coffee. Now I can make lattes and everything,” Pandolfi said. “I know things by memory. Sometimes he even leaves me in charge. [I’m] getting used to the leadership.”

Owner Jason McCready agrees on how Pandolfi has really stepped into a role of leadership within the shop.

“Santiago does a really good job. He’s been here since we bought the place in August. He’s been here since the beginning. I have even left him here to run the place,” said McCready.

As for after high school, Pandolfi is not sure for what is next. He knows he wants to go to college, and is thinking of an inexpensive school such as Blue Ridge Community College. He plans to continue working at Cinnamon Bear until then.

“I haven’t thought of quitting, it’s a nice job. I’m planning on working here during the summer. I don’t plan on leaving anytime soon,” Pandolfi said.