By Sophie Koritz

Junior Editor, GSIS Newsletter 

Every student studies differently. A glance into any study cafe or library on campus will reveal Yonsei students combining a variety of study tactics like creating study guides, reviewing flashcards, and rewriting key topics to ensure they are prepared for their examinations. However, creating the perfect study routine involves more than just discovering which techniques work—it also requires creating the ideal conditions for maximum focus and motivation. Amidst these quieter study settings, students turn to music to channel their productivity. With the help of our fellow GSIS students, we have curated a unique study playlist, featuring the songs and genres that have been getting students through the midterm season. 

Peace - J.Rovia, Nair B, づちゃん

 Jonathan Nuwanyakpa | Fourth Semester | PIC | United States of America 

 “I wrote to this track as a reminder to just keep on going when times get tough. And [I] would say the vibes [are] chill and introspective.” 

 I Could Fall in Love - Selena  

Alexandro Vega | Fourth Semester | PIC | United States of America

“I Could Fall In Love is a 90s mild pop ballad from my childhood that really calms my nerves and anxieties, perfect for a good study session!”  

Life - ANBR

 Asmar Orujova | Fourth Semester | ITFM | Azerbaijan

 “I think I like this song because it reminds me of why I started to study in the first place and there are no lyrics which helps me concentrate.” 

 What’s My Name (내 이름은) - T-ara (티아라)

 Yacheng Zhao | Fourth Semester | ITFM | China

 “It gives me a lively but slightly sad feeling, which makes me feel I am standing under a cloudy day but the sun will come out right away.”

Jet Lag (Feat. Natasha Bedingfield) - Simple Plan

Nicole | Fourth Semester | PIC | United States of America

“This song's lyrics reflect how I feel as an international student being so far away from my loved ones. Plus, it's also a collaboration song between two artists I really liked when I was young!”

 A Day in the Bikini Bottom - Spongebob ASMR Music & Ambiance

Yingran Zhao | Fourth Semester | INFM | China

“Because SpongeBob is so positive, cute, cheerful, and full of sunshine! It helps brighten up my mood, especially when I'm stuck indoors all day preparing for midterm exams. :) Plus, I find myself able to focus better with white noise rather than in a completely quiet environment.”

Coming Out Your Mouth - Glass Animals

Sally Zhu | Third Semester | PIC | China

“The vibe is chill but rhythmed, making me feel a little bit excited but helping me to concentrate sometimes.”

Peaceful Piano Playlist - Spotify

 Linh Pham | Third Semester | PIC | Vietnam

“If I have a bad day, and everything is so stressful I would have my candles on and listen to this music – it’s kind of healing.”

A Sky Full of Stars - Coldplay

Tomomi Kiyomura | Third Semester | PIC | Japan

“This song motivates me because the sound is enthusiastic, so it makes me feel like ‘ok I am ready to combat this assignment’.”

 Matsuri - Fujii Kaze

Patricia Andal | Third Semester | ITFM | Philippines

“The melody is upbeat, but it still gives a vibe that is really chill so it is not that distracting when you are studying.”

Concerning Hobbits (from The Hobbit Soundtrack) - Howard Shore

Emma Debow | Third Semester |  PIC | United States of America

“I feel like I am in the Shire when I listen to it. It’s like a forestry, woodland, fairy vibe.”

REACT (feat. Ella Henderson) Culture Shock Remix - Switch Disco

Lars Kofahl | Graduate Exchange Student | Germany

“I think I look for melodic electronic beats because they somehow put my brain to focus mode.”

Piano Song Series - Frederic Chopin

Bae Seung Shin | First Semester | PIC | South Korea

“ I prefer melody without lyrics.”

Medieval Philosopher Music - YouTube

Clemens | First Semester | PIC | France

“It's not a very changing music. Sometimes when you listen to music, it has some ups and downs in terms of rhythm, dynamic etc., and that can make you lose your focus.”