Music: the soundtrack to your life, or so they say. Chances are, you listen to music and make playlists, desperately hoping to ~feel~ something. Whether it’s a mood or a specific memory you’re trying to relive, music can take you there.

And if you’re reading this, chances are you are currently, or formerly, a Penn State student. Here are 10 playlists for occasions any true Nittany Lion is sure to experience at Dear Old State.

A Warm Afternoon On Old Main Lawn

As spring rolls around, the weather gets nicer and Penn Staters can be seen hanging out on Old Main lawn. Maybe you’re playing spikeball or trying to get that golden tan. Hopefully, this playlist will help keep the ~vibes~ good.

Studying At The HUB

The HUB is a popular spot on campus for students to study and grind out work. If you have a ton of homework or you’ve got an exam coming up, one of the best ways to cram is with a little bit of music — classical music, to be exact. Sometimes, lyrics can just be too distracting. So just sit back and let Tchaikovsky and Co. whisk you away.

Walking Home From The Library On A Chilly Night

Let me set the scene: You’re walking home from a long night of studying at the library. It’s dark, chillier than when you went in, and the only light is coming from the street lights that line Pattee Mall. You’ll need some tunes to power through it.

Downtown On The Weekend At 2 A.M.

You know what I’m talking about. It’s late, and everyone is stumbling back home or headed to their late-night drunk food spot of choice. Need I say more?

East Market At Closing Time

In case you’ve ever gotten a case of the late-night munchies and made your way over to East Market, you may be familiar with the loud rotation of 80s and 90s rock and rap.

Whether your parents are members of Generation X and this music reminds you of your childhood, or you got one of these many earworms stuck in your head while on the hunt for snacks, this playlist is for you.

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1uDTCXlrZXv97jyZZP2Z5D?si=JqGgTPdeSjy9pbJS6LsCeA

An Un-Renovated Dorm In August

OK, maybe you didn’t win the housing lottery and were forced to live in one of the many unrenovated, traditional dorms across campus.

The warmer weather in August and September builds character, and you’ll be stronger because of it. Who needs air conditioning? Grab your box fans, open those windows, and think cool thoughts.

Walking Up Shortlidge Road

We’ve all been there, folks. Walking up Shortlidge Road is no feat for the faint of heart. It takes true stamina and is the only reason why our calves look so good without stepping foot in a gym. In case you have a trip up Shortlidge in your future, here’s a playlist to help you power through.

Dropping Your Toothbrush In A Communal Bathroom

Whether you brush your teeth in the shower or over the sink, there is no greater disappointment than when you drop your toothbrush in a communal bathroom. Does the five-second rule apply in the pits of Hell unrenovated bathroom? Personally, I’m gonna go with “no,” but you do you. Now, if you need me, I’ll be mourning the loss of my toothbrush. Don’t hit my line.

Having A Breakdown In McLanahan’s

Ah, McLanahan’s. What’s not to love? It’s a one-stop-shop for snacks, personal care items, school supplies, party decorations, and Penn State gear, and you can do it all while listening to classic rock you know from riding along in your dad’s car. But maybe, just maybe, you’re like me, and McLanahan’s has been a place of refuge during *at least* two breakdowns. In that case, this playlist is for you.

Dropping Out

OK, maybe those breakdowns in McLanahan’s got to you. Maybe you read our guide on how to drop out at Penn State, and it’s starting to sound pretty good! In any case, this playlist is for you. I’m gonna be real, though. I haven’t considered dropping out (yet), so please enjoy this playlist ranging from “Young, Dumb, & Broke” by Khalid to “Rockstar” by Nickelback.

Happy listening, folks!