So, what do students listen to when trying to stay motivated? And in what settings do they listen to it?

Elementary education sophomore Haylee Jasinski listens to motivational music at the gym. She said when she works out, specifically, she feels like listening to upbeat tunes helps "motivate her to keep going." 

Jasinski said the artist she listens to most when trying to stay motivated is Eminem; she listens to his whole catalog on shuffle. When walking to classes, Jasinski said, she puts on his music to "get hyped up" for coursework.

"It definitely does help me if I’m not in the mood ... to actually get me in the mood, or to keep my mood up if I’m already in the mood," Jasinski said. "All of my friends definitely listen to motivational music. They’ll (listen) while doing homework and studying."

Although Jasinski doesn't listen to much music while studying or doing homework, finance sophomore Collin Brueck does. Brueck said he listens to music "all the time to get motivated" throughout various activities, especially when in the gym. 

"I’m always listening to music throughout the day, whether it’s walking to class, in the gym, or eating, I always have my headphones on," Brueck said. "I have a gym playlist that I’ve made on my own, and it definitely helps me get motivated in the gym when I’m not feeling up to it that day."

Brueck said the main artists in his gym playlist are Eminem, Travis Scott and Lynyrd Skynyrd – two rap artists and a rock band. Brueck said he believes Eminem is one of the few artists who can "motivate everyone" and keep people "focused and pushing themselves."

Unlike Jasinski, Brueck likes listening to music while studying and doing homework because it helps him get a lot of work done. However, he mixes it up from Eminem and hardcore music to more low-key and calming music, like Tame Impala or Zach Bryan.

"It lets my brain focus more without wandering off," he said. 

Media relations associate at North Star Inbound Melissa Stephenson was part of a study that focused on United States residents and their affiliation with listening to motivational music. Stephenson said a lot of college students in the U.S. listen to uplifting music, which is good for them.

"I think right now, an escape in any way that’s healthy is important," Stephenson said. "I think music is definitely a really healthy outlet. It can really boost your mood."

As the end of the semester inches closer and finals week approaches, it’s important for students to use various tools like music as an outlet. Whether you’re at the gym or just studying for an exam, listening to music – whether relaxing or upbeat – can be a way for students to stay focused and motivated.