By Annabel Simmons

Music is an essential element to human life — influencing our emotions, fostering connections and enhancing everyday experiences. Walking around the University of Arkansas campus, you will see an abundance of students wearing various listening devices, immersed in their own musical worlds. But how exactly does music play a role in student life, especially in the face of college complexities? 

University students, in particular, significantly rely on music. The medium has become a necessity for most U of A students — weaving its way into various aspects of daily routines. From getting through the day to winding down at night, music seems to be innately nestled into the mundane, ordinary activities of life. 

Camille Wright, a sophomore at the U of A studying biology, noted she listens to music throughout the entirety of her day. For her, having the continuous background noise makes the day more enjoyable. 

“I listen to it when studying, driving, working out, walking from class to class, cleaning and even showering,” Wright said. Using music to simply accompany everyday experiences is a common trend for most students.

One of the most common times students use music is during studying and completing coursework. For many, music is considered to be an integral piece to their study routine, enhancing one’s ability to complete coursework and increasing academic performance. However, reasons for use when studying vary among students. Music may be used as mere background noise. 

“Background noise kind of drowns out the stray thoughts in my head, so I can focus better,” Wright explained. 

The preferred genre for completing academic work differs depending on who is listening. For some students, listening to lyrical music tends to be distracting in times of needed focus. Because of this, Wright said she typically listens to instrumental guitar or slow classical playlists, which is a popular option for many students. 

When using music as a stimulus for creativity and motivation, others prefer listening to their favorite artists and more upbeat playlists during coursework. Several students claimed that streaming a playlist full of their most cherished songs has the capacity to raise their mood, better motivating them to complete strenuous assignments. The right song can help shift perception, making difficult tasks feel more manageable.

However, music can bring a dichotomous effect to productivity. Belle Chapal, a sophomore at the U of A, emphasizes how music often serves as a source of inspiration, increasing her creativity and productivity. She also notes that good music can sometimes be distracting. 

“I think it’s such an influential medium,” Chapal said. “I’ll sit down to study, and the right song can inspire me to get through a paper in half an hour, but the wrong album can distract me.” The inconsistent influence that music can have is hindering at times; however, credit is still due for its creative impact.

“Listening to music might redirect my energy, but I think a lot of my energy comes from listening to music as well,” Chapal said. Balancing music as a tool for efficiency versus enjoyment is key to optimizing its benefits.

Beyond academics, music is very involved in most students’ social lives. It serves as a means of connection, fostering friendships and creating lasting memories. “I think music definitely brings people together and creates a sense of community around campus,” Chapal said. “I met one of my best friends at a local concert freshman year, and we’ve had so many memories together since. When me and my friends want a weekend away, we always plan it around concerts and festivals.”

Chapal works as the station manager at KXUA, the student-run radio station at the U of A. Through KXUA, Chapal is constantly introduced to new artists and genres by her peers, she said. “Talking to other students about music can introduce you to new songs, but I think more importantly it can bring you closer together,” Chapal said. Recently, she has been enjoying artists such as FKA Twigs, Jane Remover and Caroline Polachek. “The first few months of spring semester always seem pretty bleak, so I’m looking for something rich, energetic and fun,” she said. “It’s an art pop spring.”

Isabella Galloway, a sophomore studying chemical engineering, also recognizes how music fosters community. She played the clarinet throughout middle and high school but had to give it up in college due to the demands of her coursework. Despite this, music remains a staple in her life. “I don’t go a day without listening to at least a few hours of music,” she said. Attending local concerts has allowed her to form meaningful connections, similar to Chapal’s experiences. “I’ve made so many great friends going to local shows and concerts,” she said. One of her favorite places to watch shows with local artists is Vinos in Little Rock. “I just love the community there,”Galloway said. 

Music also plays a huge role in nightlife culture, providing a break from academic stress. Many students use music to set the tone for nights out. Kaitlynn Miller, a sophomore studying psychology, emphasizes how music helps create a positive atmosphere before going out with friends. “It really helps us all feel more connected and confident,” she said. Sharing admiration for many of the same artists, it’s easy for them to enjoy music with one another, she said. 

Stress is inevitable for students. Academic expectations can be overwhelming and hard to navigate. However, music is a notable outlet for these pressures, providing a boost of serotonin and catharsis when needed. It is a significant tool for aiding overall well-being and mental health. “Music is like a form of therapy for me,” Miller said. “I turn to it in so many different situations because it helps me better myself.” She notes it as something she uses to relieve anxiety and stress because of its ability to take negative thoughts off of her mind. 

Whether one is listening to study, socialize or relieve stress, music remains a vital part of student life, enhancing the college experience in countless ways. As students navigate the highs and lows of university life, music will undoubtedly remain a powerful force in guiding them through their journey.