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When I joined my college’s music production club, I thought I was simply pursuing a personal passion. I’ve always enjoyed experimenting with beats, layering sounds, and figuring out how different pieces of music come together. I did it purely for fun, as a creative break from classes and assignments.

But over time, I noticed something surprising: the same skills I was honing in the studio were showing up in my classes, group projects, and even internships.

At first, the club felt like a totally separate world. We’d meet in a small room filled with cables, keyboards, and speakers. There, we would bounce ideas off each other, working to turn rough ideas into polished tracks.

I thought I was just learning how to make music. I didn’t realize I was also learning how to collaborate.

The Rhythm of Collaboration

Producing music with a group teaches you timing, both musically and in how you interact with others. You learn how to listen, when to speak up, and when to step back. You learn that great tracks stem from collaboration, not from one person controlling the sound.

That exact mindset helped me become a better teammate in academic group work. I began communicating more clearly and offering more constructive feedback. I also became more open to letting go of my own ideas if another approach worked better.

Patience in Production

Another unexpected takeaway from music production was patience. When you’re mixing a track, it never sounds perfect on the first attempt. You adjust one sound, then another, and often go back to revise something you already “finished.”

This trial-and-error process made me more comfortable with revising my work in school. Whether it was an essay, a presentation, or a project, I stopped striving for perfection on the first try. Instead, I learned to trust the process, just as I do in the studio.

Confidence in Communication

Even public speaking felt less intimidating. I used to get nervous presenting in class, but explaining beats and sound design choices to my club members helped me find confidence in my voice.

When you talk about something you’re passionate about, you naturally become a better communicator. That skill started spilling over into all areas of my life.

Transferable Skills in Hobbies

I joined the music production club because I liked making beats. I stayed because it helped me grow in ways I never anticipated.

I learned how to collaborate, how to be patient with my work, and how to express my ideas with confidence. What started as a fun, creative outlet became a transformation in the way I approach school, group settings, and even my professional life.

If you have something you love doing outside of class, don’t underestimate its value. You might think it’s just a hobby, but it could teach you more than you realize.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ����app Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –����to pitch your idea and get started! 

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College is a whirlwind of new experiences, and having a roommate can make that adventure even more exciting, or a bit challenging. From navigating unfamiliar buildings and academic expectations to developing friendships and exploring personal identities, college life is a transformative journey that can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. At the heart of that experience is the relationship with your roommate. Having a positive roommate relationship can make all the difference in your college experience, providing a safe space to be yourself, share experiences, and grow alongside your peers.

Let’s be honest, living with a stranger can be tough. Late-night study sessions can quickly turn into noisy distractions, messy spaces can be a source of tension, and differing personalities can clash. It's easy to fall into a routine of avoidance, where you and your roommate coexist rather than connect. But the reality is, your roommate is someone who can help shape your college experience. They can provide a sounding board for your ideas, support you through tough times, and even become a lifelong friend. So, how do you make the most of this experience?

It's essential to establish open communication from the jump. This means having an honest conversation about your expectations, boundaries, and needs. You can discuss things like quiet hours, cleanliness, and guest policies to create a mutually respectful environment. It also helps to engage in activities and hobbies that you both enjoy, whether that's cooking, movie nights, or outdoor adventures. By fostering a sense of connection and community, you can turn your dorm room into a home where you both feel seen, heard, and valued.

Of course, it's not always smooth sailing, but with a little creativity, patience, and empathy, you can turn your roommate experience into a highlight of your college years and beyond. By choosing to prioritize this relationship, you can not only survive the college years but also create lasting memories and friendships that extend far beyond the classroom.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ����app Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –����to pitch your idea and get started! 

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