‘A little sweet treat’: Oakland offers array of sweets and smiles for students 

Sweet treats are a go-to for college students in need of a serotonin boost after a long day of classes, exams and social interactions. For those in need, there are a number of shops that specialize in desserts throughout Oakland. 

“Whenever I work, I know that there are a lot of students that come in that look like they just got done studying, or out of class,” Christina Pentecost, a senior biology student who works at Insomnia Cookies, said. “I think it’s good to have a lot of places on campus where kids can go to get something for themselves.”

Insomnia Cookies, which started as a company whose mission was to satisfy the craving of the late-night-studying college student, sits on Meyran Avenue. Pentecost mentioned that many people who come into the establishment were students. 

“During the week nights … we do have people coming in until 1 a.m.,” Pentecost said. “Most of the time, it’s students who maybe were up late at the library or they wanted to get out and get something for themselves.”

As a Pitt student, Pentecost understands the urge for something sugary. 

“Personally, I think when I’m stressed out, I tend to crave something sweet,” Pentecost said. 

A popular spot for ice cream, coffee and other cold treats is Millie’s Homemade Ice Cream, located on Oakland Avenue. Michele Spiller, a senior film and media student who works at Millie’s, gave the scoop on how she is able to give back to the Oakland community from behind the counter. 

“I love my job, I really do,” Spiller said. “I love being able to give that person the smile that they need for the day. Having simple conversations to lift some spirits while I’m scooping ice cream, making a coffee or something like that.” 

Spiller highlighted fellow students who have come in feeling stressed during test periods and the excitement she finds in her ability to make their lives a little sweeter. 

“I’ve had people come in — especially during finals week — and say, ‘It’s just been so rough. I’ve been studying all day and I just really need a coffee or a sweet treat to pick up my energy for the day.’” Spiller said. “It’s just so nice being that person … I just wanna make this something you’re definitely going to enjoy and think about for the rest of the day.” 

Spiller spoke to the importance of having places to pick up a “sweet treat” around campus.

“I think it’s super important to have a sweet treat place, whether it’s to reward yourself or have someplace to go with friends … it makes it easier for students to give themselves that energy boost for the day to make it through,” Spiller said.

Rebekah Mischler, a junior environmental science major who once worked at MilkShake Factory on Forbes Avenue, agreed with Spiller and Pentecost that students need these types of outlets during the semester. 

“Some of my favorite memories I have are going out to eat with friends after school events or anything school related,” Mischler said. “When I’m stressed out, I like to get myself a little sweet treat as a fun little thing for myself. I think it’s important for students to have these spaces where they can make these memories and reward themselves.” 

MilkShake Factory, located on Forbes Avenue, specializes in milkshakes. They offer a menu of gourmet milkshakes and stay open late for students. 

“[MilkShake Factory] is open until 11 p.m. every night — and that includes school nights — so if students are late night studying and they want a sweet treat, MilkShake Factory is available, which is nice,” Mischler said.

Whether students want to reward themselves for a hard day of work, de-stress from challenges of everyday life or simply have a sweet tooth, Oakland is filled with tons of options for Panthers to enjoy.