I am a Barista

Barista
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A competitor (James Hoffmann) during the World Barista Championship.
This article is about bartenders. For lawyers, see Barrister. For the chain of espresso bars in India, see Barista Coffee.
Not to be confused with Batista.
When using the term in English, "barista" refers to one who has acquired some level of expertise in the preparation of espresso-based coffee drinks. Within certain circles, its meaning is expanding to include what might be called a coffee sommelier; a professional who is highly skilled in coffee preparation, with a comprehensive understanding of coffee, coffee blends, espresso, quality, coffee varieties, roast degree, espresso equipment, maintenance, latte art, etc. James Hoffmann of Britain is the current World Barista Champion.
Though popularly believed to be an Italian term, it was developed in America as a derivative of the Italian word meaning bartender and is now part of the lexicon of some American coffee shops. Entered into English from the Italian in which it means roughly "bartender" (plural: baristi [masculine or mixed sex] or bariste [feminine]). The term is derived from the Italian use of the word bar, which is similar to the American or British café. In Italy, the barista typically works behind a counter, serving both hot (such as espresso and other coffee-based ones) and cold alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Although I am astounded to be akin to such a definition, and I think Scooter's should start selling really good beer and wine, I believe there is much more to being a barista. Baristas are the experts at everything. We are the available ear to anyone's woes. We set a tone to our given coffee houses. We arise early to ensure that your coffee is ready when you are. I love it!