We learn that President Obama got his first job scooping ice cream at a Baskin-Robbins in Honolulu, where he lived with his grandparents as a teenager.
Sue Thirlwall, Baskin-Robbins’ brand operating officer, told the LA Times in 2009 that the ice-cream business has taught many employees crucial presidential skills:
“Scooping for America’s favorite neighborhood ice cream shop can result in obtaining basic lifelong job skills, like handling consumer care in real time and keeping calm under pressure. As for the ice cream scooping itself — an actual ice cream scooper is a powerful tool that requires skill and craftsmanship,” she said. “The crew member who communicates effectively is both a diplomat and a terrific brand ambassador, serving guests of all flavor preferences.”