Imagine working two jobs and going to school at the same time. Imagine getting no Netflix time. It is all worth it for Mike S. Mike is the epitome of what hardworking is and should be. Despite all the long hours and rude customers, he consistently remains positive, upbeat and friendly. Here is a snapshot of what a day in his life looks like…
4:30 AM — Mike wakes up for work at Starbucks.
“This has to be the worst part of my day. Every time my alarm rings, I always have the urge to hit the snooze button. I don’t, but sometimes I wish I should.” – MS
5:30 AM – 10:00 AM — Shift at Starbucks
Mike takes the morning shift because he loves seeing the same customers each morning and giving them their booster for the day. He also likes the morning shift because he loves his fellow employees. He says they are a fantastic team. Most importantly, Mike’s favourite drinks are the Strawberry Refresher and Peach Tea. He usually has one of them in the morning.
Some may say that working at Starbucks in the morning is the worst because it is SO busy and that they would get tired of Frappuccinos and Lattes. However, Mike sees the positive side of it, as he thrives under pressure and feels like the busier it is, the faster the time goes. Not to mention that he loves making different drinks for customers.

10:00 AM – 10:26 AM — Run to FHCI
“I have to eat my breakfast while I literally run to school. I know it sounds crazy, but I do.” – MS
10:26 AM – 11:42 AM — Film with Mr. Lee
“First off, can we talk about these times; like why is it 10:26 and not 10:30? Why is it 11:42 and not 11:45? Very odd.” – MS
Mike has 29 credits, so he only needs 1 more to graduate. For his last high school course he chose Film. Mike has a burning passion for photography and film and is always eager to learn more. He is an incredible photographer, as shown on his Instagram page (@msivolap).
11:42 AM – 3:00 PM — Lunch and Homework and maybe Sleep.
After class Mike goes home for lunch and does homework. His favourite food is Borscht. He says his mom makes the best because she has been making it for years. For homework, Mike is usually creating interesting and thought-provoking films and taking new and exciting city photos. If he has spare time, he takes a quick nap to refresh.
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM — Travel to Banana Republic
“I know, I know. 1 hour seems long to go to work, but it wouldn’t be if the TTC weren’t so bad. Anyways, that’s a topic for another day.” – MS
4:00 PM – 10:00 PM — Work at Banana Republic
“Round Two. This job is totally different from Starbucks. Here, I stock shelves and help customers find their style. I am usually successful in giving people outfit makeovers. It is a really fun job.” – MS
Mike brings his infectious smile and outgoing personality to Banana Republic. You would think that he would be tired after a busy day, but he isn’t because he loves what he does. He is always recognized as being the most helpful employee and the employee that others look up to.
10:30 PM – 4:30 AM — Sleep! Finally!
“This is where I can finally sleep and chill. I deserve it right; after this busy day?” – MS