William Shakespeare famously wrote, “If music be the food of love, play on,” and I believe there is a song for every emotion and experience one faces. First year at university is no different. With so many firsts packed into one year, music naturally becomes a constant companion, connecting us through shared experiences. And yet, it touches each of us in a unique way. And so, here is PDBY’s soundtrack to first year:
- “Unwritten” – Natasha Bedingfield
First year is your blank slate, so make the most of it. Just remember to always feel the rain on your skin.
- “Down South” – Jeremy Loops ft. Motheo Moleko
Chasing new opportunities sometimes means you have to leave home, but hold onto the memories and people that shaped you while stepping into the unknown.
- “Palco” – Gilberto Gil
Find. Your. Own. Spotlight. “Palco” celebrates the joy and self-discovery that comes from embracing your own independence.
- “Gnarly” – KATSEYE
They could describe [first year] with one single word: gnarly. First year is a beautiful chaos – messy, but completely unforgettable.
- “What You Know” – Two Door Cinema Club
This song mirrors the rush of first year. A year full of energy, movement, and discovering your own pace.
- “Temporary Fix” – One Direction
University creates a space for you to explore and have fun, even when not everything is meant to last. Remember, don’t go looking for love in Jolly’s.
- “I Love It” – Icona Pop ft. Charli XCX
Did you even go to the Strip if you did not hear this song at least twice?
- “Tanzania” – Uncle Waffles
This song captures the kind of nights that are less about where you are and more about who you are with in the moment.
- “Geheueverlies” – Eloff
It is important to let loose and have a wild night out every so often. Whether that means waking up the next day with fuzzy memories of the night before or having ice cream at Uncle Faouzi’s at 11pm with friends… the choice is yours.
- “Sweet Caroline” – Neil Diamond
“Sweet Caroline” has become an unofficial requirement at every Varsity Cup game, and the game just does not feel complete without it.
- “Lovefool” – The Cardigans
Whirlwind romances are bound to happen during your time at university, but remember, knowing yourself is important before diving headfirst into romance.
- “Ribs” – Lorde
Some of you might be lucky and meet your best friend on day one of O-Week, but if not, trust that your people will find you. University is made memorable not by the campus, but by the friendships formed on it.
- “Vienna” – Billy Joel
Remember to take deep breaths. First year is not a race; it is a journey to be enjoyed. Focus on the present because just like Vienna, your whole life is still ahead of you.
- “this is me trying” – Taylor Swift
University is a completely different ball game than high school ever was, so allow yourself time to adapt and adjust. Do not put yourself under too much pressure to be the best or at the top. Simply do your personal best in this new chapter of your life.
- “Call Your Mom” – Noah Kahan
As my dad always says, “call your mother”. It is super important to have a support network to fall back on when that academically-challenging degree decides to academically challenge you.
- “DtMF (Debí Tirar Más Fotos)” – Bad Bunny
Take the time to make memories you will tell your children about one day. And if you have a digicam, prepare to be the life of the party.
- “Tongue Tied” – GROUPLOVE
Enjoy the feeling of being young and free. Even if it gets loud and messy, make it exciting.
- “You’re On Your Own, Kid” – Taylor Swift
“The scary news is you’re on your own now, but the cool news is you’re on your own now.”
Gabriella le Roux
