Andani Munkaila/ Fourth Estate

Patriots pop out for free protein shakes 

BY ANDANI MUNKAILA, SOCIAL MEDIA AND GRAPHICS EDITOR

On Thursday, Sept. 12, lines wrapped around Wilkins Plaza as hundreds waited to receive their free protein shake from Mason’s newest dining spot, Shake Smart, celebrating their grand opening in Fenwick Library. 

By 11:15 a.m., the line for Shake Smart had grown to 822 people, stretching into Wilkins Plaza, as reported by Sophia Nelson, a marketing manager for Sodexo. 

Nelson noted the competitive atmosphere among different Shake Smart locations and expressed optimism that Mason would exceed Florida State University’s record turnout of 1,800 people set in 2021. The Mason location ultimately came short of that number, reporting a turnout of 1,783 people, according to Nelson.

“Shake Smart is designed to give students a healthy option on campus,” Nelson said. “Most of their protein shakes contain protein powder, fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s a great one-stop place to get your fix.”

Shake Smart, created by Kevin Gelfand and Martin Reiman, aims to provide health-focused meals for college students. Founded in 2011, Shake Smart plans to open new stores on campuses across the nation.

Andani Munkaila/ Fourth Estate

Juniors Sydney Carver and Jenifer Zhandira claimed to have waited an hour and a half to get their free protein shakes. Other patrons reported waits as long as an hour and forty minutes. After receiving their “Green to Go” and “Banana Chocolate Strawberry” protein shakes, respectively, the pair shared their thoughts.

“Mine is actually really good,” Carver said.

Both Zhandira and Carver expressed excitement about the new spot. When asked if they would return, they responded enthusiastically, “absolutely.”

Andani Munkaila/ Fourth Estate

This sentiment seemed to be shared by other students, with some noting that their protein shakes exceeded their expectations.

Shake Smart, which can be found at the front entrance lobby of Fenwick Library, is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays.