On any given school morning, it’s almost impossible to not spot a Dunkin’ cup in a student’s hand, rushing to first period, half finished, sitting on a classroom desk. For many students, Dunkin’ has become less of a luxury and more of a routine, a small gift that helps power through early mornings and packed schedules.

   “America Runs on Dunkin,” the famous slogan used by Dunkin’ celebrates hardworking Americans and highlights how the brand has woven itself into people’s busy lives. This connects especially to students who juggle classes, afterschool jobs, and extracurriculars. Beyond breakfast, Dunkin’ products are the perfect way for students to be energized and active throughout the day.

Why is caffeine vital for students?

    Caffeine isn’t just a casual indulgence for students. For some, it’s a coping mechanism. Research shows that a vast majority of college students consume caffeine in some form, often multiple times a day. Students report a variety of reasons for this reliance. The most common reason is to feel awake and alert throughout the day. Others drink coffee to enhance focus, socialize with their peers, or simply to just enjoy the taste and ritual of a coffee run. 

    “Dunkin helps me stay energized and helps me get through the day with a better focus span,” junior Nehaj Mehdi emphasizes. Across campuses, coffee shops serving as meeting places and study hubs help students stay focused on their work; integrating itself into common routines and becoming a staple for getting through the day.

    However, while drinking coffee and other caffeinated beverages can be beneficial for students, it is equally important to practice moderation. Although caffeine helps many students stay awake, focused, and productive throughout the day, it’s still a stimulant drug that can lead to addiction and caffeine toxicity. Caffeine toxicity occurs when excessive coffee consumption can disrupt sleep, increase heart palpitations, and heighten levels of anxiety.

Dunkin’: A practical pick for students 

    Dunkin has emerged as a go-to option for students because it aligns with their everyday needs and financial realities. One of the most significant factors behind its popularity is due to the affordability for its drinks and food items that are generally less expensive than competitors like Starbucks, making frequent visits more realistic. At the same time, Dunkin’ offers more variety and accessibility, with a menu that extends beyond basic coffee to include iced drinks, espresso beverages, teas and quick snacks, allowing students to choose from a strong caffeine boost to a simple treat. 

    Additionally, Dunkin’ has increasingly targeted Gen-Z through social media campaigns and partnerships – for example. In 2025, Dunkin teamed up with singer Sabrina Carpenter, offering limited edition reusable cups and social media driven promotions tied to her daydream refreshers, generating excitement among young fans.

    Finally, with the current political state of the world, specifically the Israel-Gaza conflict, some students’ decided to boycott Starbucks over the company’s response to the Israel–Gaza conflict. This led many young consumers to look for the next best option. The boycott emerged as students and activists criticized the company’s public statements, perceived neutrality, and alleged corporate associations, which were widely discussed through social media campaigns, campus protests, and online petitions. 

    For many students, these concerns transformed routine purchases into ethical decisions, buying from Starbucks was now seen as indirectly supporting a corporation that did not align with their views on human rights. Students increasingly prioritize transparency, corporate responsibility, and a brand’s stance on international issues when choosing where to spend their money, believing that consumer pressure can influence large corporations. As a result, student purchasing choices reflect a broader moral framework in which everyday consumption becomes a deliberate act tied to political awareness, personal values, and collective activism.

    While Dunkin’s rise in popularity among students reflects changing values, affordability, and accessibility, it also highlights a larger dependence on caffeine within student culture. Although moderate caffeine consumption can improve alertness and focus, excessive reliance may disrupt sleep, increase anxiety, and negatively affect overall well-being. Ultimately, the conversation surrounding Dunkin is not just about brand preference, but about how caffeine fits into the realities and pressures of modern student life.