Music has always been a huge part of my life. I’m the type of person to sing in the shower, listen to my favorite songs while getting ready in the morning, and occasionally dance in the middle of a store when a good song comes on. Now that I’ve completed a full year at Stevens, I realize that music has played a bigger role in my life than I thought.
Adjusting to college was a bit scary at times: new campus, new people, and new classes. I remember my first night in Jonas Hall being unable to fall asleep for a few hours, feeling worried about what my first semester would have in store for me. But despite all of these changes and nerves, I still kept the same habits of listening to music whenever I could. Whether it was putting on a playlist while doing my chemistry homework, listening to a calm song while taking a walk up to Babbio Patio, or jamming out to “Fall Out Boy” when I’m on the treadmill, I still kept a part of me that has been there since childhood.
One of the songs I listened to constantly while doing laundry in the mornings and during my first year was “The Chase” by Hearts2Hearts. The song is about embracing your curiosity and being unafraid to take the first step into a new adventure, even when the future is uncertain. To me, “The Chase” fully encapsulated my first year at Stevens. I didn’t know if I would ace my midterm or pass the audition for Stevens A Capella club, but I wanted to put myself out there and try. I wanted to chase my goals and explore the new environment I was slowly adapting to. This song inspired me throughout the year to do the small, yet meaningful things like inviting a friend out to lunch or introducing myself to a professor during office hours.
Even though most days during my first year at Stevens went well, there were still bumps in the road. I remember one rough day during my first semester. I felt stressed about my grades after receiving a test score that I wasn’t too happy about. As I walked back to my dorm while the sun was slowly starting to set, I listened to the song “Youtiful” by Stray Kids. This song helped me remember that I shouldn’t put so much pressure on myself when I make mistakes and doubting myself will only hurt me, not help me. Taking a moment to listen to a relaxing melody and breathe was exactly what I needed to clear my head and boost my mood.
For me, music served as an anchor that kept me grounded in my goals and relieved my stress when times were tough. It was the reason why I felt energized in the morning before classes or relaxed after a long day. One of the reasons why I love music in general is how every person has a different experience when listening to a song. The same song that energizes and motivates someone could evoke feelings of nostalgia for another. Listening to music is a great way to process your emotions and stay regulated during stressful situations. Although my second year of college will be less terrifying, I’m still going to have my mini dance parties in my bedroom while I get myself ready for the day!
