THE SOUNDTRACK OF EXAM SEASON

Amari Marè

@amari.mare

 

Late-night study sessions, last-minute emails to lecturers, and panic all the way. Sound familiar? This is the melody of exam season, where your brain cells burn from processing information, only to forget it the moment you put your pen down in the exam hall. Luckily, there is an abundance of music for every phase you go through during this time.

 

The Prepping Phase (also known as the Optimistic Phase)

 

This is where we are hopeful for a scope and determined to make handwritten notes, slightly naïve enough to believe that the phrase “I will start early and stay organised this time” will actually stick. This phase pairs perfectly with upbeat, energetic, or motivational music. “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor sets the mood and makes you feel ready to conquer the study material. “Good as Hell” by Lizzo gets your feet moving, and that high note warns the neighbours that serious studying is about to begin. Lo-fi beats with a positive tone help you stay calm and focused while you are in the zone.

 

The Reality Check (Cramming Phase)

 

This is where you realise you underestimated those participation marks and wonder whether you were ever actually in class. It is overwhelming, but focused energy kicks in. Fast-paced classical music such as Mozart and Bach helps with concentration. Techno music can drown out anxiety and keep your mind moving. “Stressed Out” by Twenty One Pilots is perfect for those who need a song that understands exactly what they are going through.

 

The Existential Crisis (Burnout Phase)

 

The exhaustion settles in. You feel hopeless and consider dropping out to become a water aerobics instructor on a cruise ship. A bit dramatic, but in the moment it feels possible. Allow yourself to feel your feelings. Eat some ice cream, take a warm bath, and breathe. Coldplay’s “Fix You” offers emotional comfort during this stage. Sad indie or acoustic playlists can help your mind slow down. If you are stuck indoors, background rain sounds or ambient noise can be grounding.

 

The Panic Peak (Exam Day)

 

Where am I writing? When am I writing? Did I study that section? Why does no one I know seem to be here? Everyone arrives at the exam hall in a shared panic, discussing topics you did not study but probably should have. “Lose Yourself” by Eminem can get your adrenaline moving, but try not to actually lose your pen in the process. Coldplay says it best in “Don’t Panic.” If anxiety spikes, meditate for a few minutes or listen to binaural beats. Avoid tapping your pen or bouncing your leg. Save the energy release for after the exam.

 

The Post-Exam Euphoria

 

This is the sweet relief of walking out of the warzone. The stress melts into joy and the victory dance begins. This is what throwback hits were made for. Dance like you have eight hours of sleep and joints that do not make clicking sounds. “We Are the Champions” by Queen is a classic celebration anthem, and “Levitating” by Dua Lipa will lift your mood even higher.

 

Exam season can be exhausting, emotionally draining, and chaotic, but music has a way of guiding us through it and helping us stay grounded. So, plug in your headphones and let the music lead you through each phase.

 

 

Edited by Kyle Bauermeister