UH's lifestyle and entertainment magazine - by students, for students

Photo by Seles Sanches

A love for music is one thing many students have in common. It is a widely popular method of relieving stress, concentrating while studying and even starting a topic of discussion. 

Candidly, having headphones on all the time, especially while walking, is a symptom of being a student. So, turn the volume up for this one!

Here’s the ultimate grad school survival playlist:

1. “Hard to Concentrate” by Red Hot Chili Peppers (2006)

When you’re trying to study amidst distractions, “Hard to Concentrate” by Red Hot Chili Peppers comes to your rescue. The music is gentle, and the rhythms create a low, stress-free environment for concentration.

The mellow pace sets the vibe right and calms the mood. The ironic title is also relatable if you’ve been feeling heavily distracted lately. 

2. “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons (2012)

Graduate school doesn’t mean you’re in adulthood–lacking permission to enjoy life. This is still college. Enjoy it.

 “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons is the perfect choice whenever you’re hanging out with friends or having a little soirée. 

It is groovy, uplifting, positive and motivational.

3. “Good News” by Mac Miller (2020)

Many students in graduate school also work full-time jobs. This tends to get stressful and overwhelming.

For such situations, “Good News” by Mac Miller is a mellow, reflective song to play and vibe to. It addresses the struggle of balancing stress and mental health. The rhythm can help reduce anxiety.

The soothing music could help you to feel positive and to connect with yourself emotionally.

4. “Pump It” by Black Eyed Peas (2005)

If you’re stuck in traffic while going to school or heading back home, this is the best song to kill the bad vibes off!

The fast pace and high-energy beats create a great combination for an immediate energy boost. Make this a go-to song for shaking off negative feelings. 

It can also help feel confident and can serve as a great motivator when you’re feeling down!

5. “Fix You” by Coldplay (2005)

Adulting isn’t easy. One day you might be stressed out, feeling lonely or going through a break-up. “Fix You” by Coldplay is a great choice in such situations.  

It is an emotional track, giving comfort and a hope of healing, even when everything feels like it’s broken and not fixable. 

It reminds the listener that it’s okay to feel hurt and vulnerable. Change is inevitable and accepting it is going to make the process easier. 

6. “Don’t Stop the Music” by Rihanna (2007)

Working out and exercising every day is important to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle while in graduate school. “Don’t Stop the Music” by Rihanna is a great choice for cardio sessions.

With its infectious beats, it’s also a go-to choice for dance-based workouts. It keeps the energy high and encourages you to keep going.

7. “Calm Down” by Rema & Selena Gomez (2022)

This is the perfect song for winding down during breaks or post-study sessions. It really helps you calm down!

Its mellow beat and gentle energy make it a great choice to help calm your nerves, release your stresses and preserve your energy levels. 

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