Talent Spotlight
The faces of TERI Common Grounds Café
Our success and growth wouldn't be possible without the gifted people we employ, and we have some of the very best. We invite you to meet some of the faces behind our achievements!
Hello, my name is Maria
BAKER EXTRAORDINAIRE
Motivated by a welcoming culture, Maria Hernandez enjoys being creative in the kitchen, experimenting with new cookie flavors, and interacting with the various TERI departments.
We asked Maria a few questions to get to know her better:
How did you get your start at Common Grounds?
I was hired as a barista but slowly made my way to the kitchen and I've been in charge of almost all of our bakery items since then. Learning something new everyday has been so much fun and I hope to get better as time goes on.
How long have you worked at TERI?
I was hired the first day we opened! October of 2021. It's been amazing seeing how much we've grown over the past couple years and I'm excited for all the upcoming changes we have planned.
What is your favorite part about working at TERI?
My favorite part about working for TERI would have to be our welcoming work culture. Working at the Vocational Center I'm able to interact with just about every department that comes through for a quick bite or cup of coffee.
What do you like to bake the most?
Favorite bakery item to make would have to be whatever Cookie of the Month we have going on! It's fun experimenting with different cookie flavors and getting feedback from our staff here at Common Grounds. Making scones, especially our blueberry scones, is definitely an arduous task but the final result makes it so worth it.
What's one thing people don't know abut you that they would be surprised to find out?
I play co-ed and indoor soccer twice a week! I'm pretty competitive and I like staying active so it's a perfect way for me to de-stress and get some exercise in.
Who or what inspired you to pursue the career you have today?
I'll be attending CSUSM for business marketing in the Fall and I could not be more excited! I hope to get involved in a sports marketing internship during my time there and transition into that after graduation.