Multiple studies link listening to music to academic achievement and mood changes. The psychology of music and the therapeutic value of listening to music may differ between you and the person next to you. However, music continues to unite us every single day. In order to recognize the unity created by music, you must first acknowledge its effect on your personal and individual life.

As a high school student, I tend to walk through the halls with headphones on. Sometimes as a sign of wanting to be left alone, other times as a form of confidence boosting. I strongly believe that my music causes me to think differently, walk differently, reflect a much more positive vibe, and overall feel extremely confident. I also took notice in the fact that I don’t wear headphones when I go out on weekends, yet I still experience that overwhelming feeling of confidence as I walk around. Why?, simply because there’s music surrounding me. On Saturday/ Friday nights there’s bands performing at the bars surrounding the downtown area, there’s music blasting through the speakers playing at restaurants or cafes on the beach. Music is found everywhere and loved by everyone.

Once I came to the conclusion that music truly does affect our day and our mindset, I decided to interview a few of my friends and get their opinions on the subject of music and how the songs they chose to listen to affect their daily lives.

Analia Dejesus, an 11th grade student at South Broward, listens to country music.

“My music always makes me feel careless, happy, and calm” says Dejesus.

Analia’s music occasionally influences her style, country music is a very impactful part of her life. She believes that her music always helps in building her confidence, especially in public settings. Walking around with headphones on to embrace her carefree vibe is a must for Analia.

Daniela San Javier, an 11th grade student at South Broward, can not go a single day without listening to music. Daniela listens to a large variety of music, but she prefers hip hop/rap and alternative. She believes rap/ hip hop makes her feel extremely energetic, while alternative music tends to calm her down.

“Music in public settings makes me feel less stressed and also creates a good atmosphere, it builds my confidence and makes me feel as if anything is possible.” stated San Javier.

Daniela’s style is also primarily based on the music she listens to. She derives her inspiration on the way she dresses from the different artists she listens to.

Mercia Matthews, an 11th grade student at South Broward, listens to R&B, hip hop, and indie. Mercia believes that her music makes her feel happy. Music puts her in a good mood especially when she can relate to the songs meaning on personal level. Certain types of music change her attitude, depending on the genre she’s listening to.

“Music is a big part of my life, when you’re in a certain type of mood there’s always a song that you can relate to.” stated Matthews.

Mercia listens to music on her way to class every day, she believes music creates a “hyped feeling”, the songs rhythm builds you up and makes you feel 10x more confident.

This immense love for music is shared universally. It connects us and builds us. Music shapes our lives daily, and our attitudes. Having a bad day? Put your headphones on, play your favorite song, and turn up the volume!