From the moment students wake up to the time they go to bed, music often plays a crucial role in their daily lives. Whether it’s the perfect playlist to help focus during a study session or a comforting song to heal a broken heart, music has the power to influence moods, productivity, and overall well-being.

Natalie Kim, a Highline College student, told the Thunderword about the role of music as a crucial part of her study routine. 

“I usually have music on in the background or in my headphones when I study,” said Kim. All types of different music can be used to study. Some people listen to classical whereas others listen to one of the thousands of different genres music has.

While many students find music helpful for studying, others turn to it as a source of emotional support. For some students, listening to melancholic music, such as songs by Lana Del Ray, can be surprisingly beneficial. Although it may seem counterintuitive, engaging with sad music often provides a sense of understanding and validation, rather than intensifying negative emotions.

Upbeat music can lift everyone’s spirit. A shared experience of a beloved song playing in a car can lead to singing, laughter, and enjoyment among friends and family. Music has the ability to elevate moods more often than not.

Beyond its role in academics, music also serves as a powerful emotional outlet for students. Whether it’s turning to a comforting song during a difficult time or using music to express joy and celebration, students often rely on music to navigate their complex emotional landscapes.

“Music can make me feel happy, sad, or euphoric,” said Martin Ayala, a student from Federal Way High School. “The different songs allow for different feelings.”

The relatability of music helps people navigate through life and brings people together, preventing awkward silences and isolation. 

Although many students who were interviewed by the Thunderword said they always used music while studying, Lizbeth Santana, another Highline College student, has a different perspective. “I sometimes use music for studying but it’s very rarely that I do,” she said, adding that although she loves music, it just makes it harder for her to study.

Santana further elaborates on the versatility of music saying, “I use music for everything. When I’m cleaning my room, washing dishes, on a drive, when I’m doing my makeup, at a party, literally anything.” It serves multiple purposes and has the capacity to bring happiness to people.

The significance of music in the lives of students cannot be overstated. As a source of motivation to study, a way to cope with emotions, as a social connection or to simply enjoy, music has the power to shape the student experience in profound ways. 

The diverse ways in which students engage with music highlight its versatility and universal appeal. As the world continues to change and evolve, one thing remains certain: music will continue to play a vital role in the lives of students, helping them to navigate the challenges and triumphs of their academic and personal lives.