A Q&A with Fulbright College Alumna Andrea Allen

Andrea Allen
Co-Founder of Onyx Coffee Lab
2006 Graduate of Fulbright College in English
2012 Graduate of Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing

In this conversation, Allen talks about co-founding Onyx Coffee Lab, being the reigning U.S. Barista Champion and runner up World Barista Champion, the importance of diligence and perseverance, her favorite former study spot in Mullins Library, her love of running and riding horses, and her business’s newest café and exploration into biodynamic wines.

Q: Can you tell us a little about your career, what you studied in college, and how the two may relate to one another?

I’m the co-founder of Onyx Coffee Lab, where I run operations for the company’s retail cafes and roastery and production facility. I’m also the U.S. Barista Champion and the runner up World Barista Champion.

I studied Creative Writing in college. I don’t think my degree and my career directly correlate, but I use my writing skills constantly at work.

I think, too, that working through college – both having a job and just completing my degree – taught me a lot about diligence and perseverance to complete things.

Q: What have been one or two of the most interesting or exciting accomplishments or experiences for you in your career or life post-college?

My most professional accomplishment is probably winning the U.S. Barista Competition and then placing second on the world level.

I would also just say the experience of growing our business has been life changing. It’s been awesome to engage with our community, to raise the standard in Specialty Coffee, to be able to collaborate and contribute to the culture of the coffee industry.

Q: What was one of your favorite memories of your time at the college and why?

I used to study in the basement of Mullins Library, and I loved my time down there.

It was so quiet, and I read so many amazing pieces of literature and worked on all of my papers and writing down there.

Really a great spot and memory.

Q: What do you like to do during your time outside of work?

I love running, riding horses, and hanging out with my husband and two daughters.

Q: What’s up next on the horizon for you?

I’m currently working a lot at our new concept called Hail Fellow Well Met! It’s a really fun counter service cafe serving incredible food, biodynamic wines, and of course coffee.

I’m getting really interested in wines and will likely pursue more knowledge in that way. I imagine we will be doing some more food concepts in the future.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add or let readers know?

Readers can learn more or follow along on @onyxcoffeelab and onyxcoffeelab.com, as well as on @hailfellowwellmet and hailfellowwellmet.com.