Music can help people relax, influence decisions and bring different cultures together, whether it be rap, country, pop, alternative, classical, blues. Music is also effective for stress reduction, according to USA Today.

“Background music may enhance performance on cognitive tasks. One older study found that listening to music allowed test takers to complete more questions in the time allotted, and get more answers right. More recent research suggests that whether or not music improves cognitive function depends on whether the music first improves a person’s emotional state,” USA Today states.

Amanda Boll, junior, listens to music many different times during the day while driving, running and doing her homework. Boll participated in the 2014 cross-country season and ran to “ the best cross-country songs.” These songs include, “Talking Body” by Tove Lo, “Shut up and Dance” and Eminem. “ Music makes me feel great because it soothes me and I feel relaxed,” Boll said.

For Meg Niedfeldt, freshman, music energizes her during dance. She participates in point, ballet, hip-hop and many other dances. “Music enhances my passion for dance and makes me feel more alive,” Niedfeldt said.