Songs that Describe my College Journey

As I approach my senior year of college, I find myself reflecting on past four years. I can definitely say that my experiences have shaped me into the person I am today, and what better way to reflect than to create a mini playlist? So, here are a few songs that represent different eras in my college career!

High School Senior Year – Carleton College Acceptance 

“Hey Look Ma, I Made It” – Panic! at the Disco

My senior year, I applied to Carleton College Early Decision. I knew that Carleton was the place I wanted to be, so I was incredibly excited when I got my acceptance email and letter. This song was (coincidentally) super popular during this time – so I think of this moment whenever I hear “Hey Look Ma, I Made It.”

Freshman Year – Transitioning to College 

“She’s So Gone” – Lemonade Mouth 

No college playlist is complete without a song that demonstrates a metamorphosis from your high school self and your college self. For me, one of these songs is “She’s So Gone” because I think it captures the feelings of being on your own and figuring out who you want to be in college. Also – I just have to include a song from at least one Disney Channel movie.

“Oui ou non” – Angèle 

Like most Carleton College students – I was in the process of completing my language requirement. I took French 103, and French 204 in my freshman year – and oh boy did I learn a lot! To practice my French, I really liked listening to French music. This is one of my favorite French songs. 

“That’s My Girl” – Fifth Harmony 

Freshman year I was super excited to attend classes, yet I felt a bit like an imposter. I kept asking myself, “Why did Carleton choose me to attend?” Thankfully, as I became more comfortable in my classes, this feeling started to go away. I started to feel more confident! This song definitely embodies that confidence later in freshman year. 

Sophomore Year – Self Realization

“Slow Angel” – Rebounder 

This song demonstrates the excitement of meeting new people. COVID- 19 restrictions were easing up at Carleton during this year, and I was really excited to get to know other students. 

“SUPERBLOOM” – MisterWives

In sophomore year, my confidence continued to grow, and I was able to finally determine what I wanted to major in! This was a huge decision for me, because I had been really hesitant up until this point. I also felt like sophomore year was more exciting than freshman year because I was able to try out different extracurricular activities and learn more about myself.

“Shower” – Becky G

My first year took place in 2020, which meant that a lot of swim team traditions weren’t able to take place. By my sophomore year, we were able to bring a few more of these back. One of my favorite traditions is when the Womens’ team sings, “Shower” in the showers of the locker room before the singing meets – so I had to include it here!

Junior Year – the “Grind” Year

“Dreaming in Electric Blue” – Dave Barnes 

To me, this song feels like it is anticipating a brand new adventure. This is how I felt in the summer before my junior year as I eagerly awaited studying abroad in Europe. However, this song also demonstrates the ability to feel two emotions at the same time, and while I was really excited to study abroad, I was also nervous to leave my friends behind.

“Fly Away” – Tones and I 

“Fly Away,” demonstrates the excitement I felt as I stepped off the plane in Amsterdam for my Off Campus Studies program, Women and Gender Studies in Europe. It is a feeling of freedom and hope for the new adventure that awaits. My study abroad experience taught me A LOT, and I definitely am grateful that I was able to experience new countries for thirteen weeks. 

“I’m Still Standing” – Elton John 

Junior year is lovingly known as the “grind year.” For me, I can definitely say this was the case. Perseverance was a crucial attribute. This song demonstrates the joy of overcoming challenges, and I definitely did that my junior year. 

Senior Year – The Ultimate Transition

Coming up on Senior year, I am heading into a transition year. Many of the songs I chose have a common theme of hope and forging your own way in the real world. 

“Sweet Disposition” – The Temper Trap

This song speaks to the feeling of being young and living with new possibilities. To me, this song feels hopeful in a time where taking risks is the norm.

“Ain’t It Fun” – Paramore 

This song highlights the not-so-great parts about transitioning from being in college to being on your own in society. While it’s really amazing to have a new found independence, there are also some aspects of being on your own that are not as fun, like having to jump your own battery instead of being able to call Carleton College security.

“Our Own House” – MisterWives 

This song speaks to making your own way in life, and not following a predestined path. While this can be scary, it’s also really exciting to get to choose what you want to do with your life. To me, this song also feels victorious.

Concluding Thoughts

While three songs can’t encapsulate all of the experiences in a year, I think that each song speaks to a few important aspects of each part of my college career! I hope these songs provide a glimpse into what Carleton College is like for students.

Around campus you’ll find Aleia (she/her/hers) competing on the varsity swim & dive team, dancing in Synchrony II, and crafting (Aleia also up-cycles clothes!). Her favorite spot on campus is the Gould Library (aka “the Libe”) – be sure to ask her which floor is her favorite!