Your Spotify soundtrack to Freshers

This collection of playlists is designed to see you through every eventuality that might accompany the chaos of Freshers’ Week.

‘All Out 00s’ - by Spotify:

The first obstacle to hurdle is the almighty task of unpacking a carload of everything that you have deemed absolutely essential to your first-year university experience (even if you will end the year owning solely a biro and a wilting houseplant). This mammoth task can be eased by the uplifting sounds of the 00s. A diverse mixture of R&B, pop, indie, rock and rap, this vibrant playlist exudes energy and inspires motivation, making it perfect for unpacking (or at least pretending to). I mean, who doesn’t know the words to ‘American Boy’? What better way to make new friends?

‘This Is Coldplay’ - by Spotify:

Another experience synonymous with Freshers’ Week and moving to UCL is that of the London commute (during which you must walk 100mph to avoid a disgruntled look from someone in an expensive business suit). In my opinion, the busy streets of London are best complemented by the distinct voice of Coldplay’s Chris Martin. The gentle melodies that flow seamlessly throughout this playlist silence the exterior hustle and bustle of London’s streets, and what better way to appreciate UCL’s surroundings than listening to a homegrown artist (because as every UCL student will remind you when passing the BT Tower, “lights will guide you home”).

‘This is Ludovico Einaudi’ - by Spotify:

The exhilaration that defines Freshers’ Week may subside when studying commences, and I always look towards Ludovico Einaudi in this hour of need. Best known for his delicate piano musings, some of which are artfully infused with alternative genres of music such as folk and pop, Einaudi serves as the ideal backing track for a long night at your desk. In particular, I would recommend ‘Divenire’ and ‘Nuvole Bianche’, two classical pieces (often featured on mainstream television) that are laced with a subtle driving energy. Alternatively, for those possessing the somewhat superhuman ability to focus whilst listening to music containing lyrics, or those that crave a more upbeat tempo, Tom Misch and Lo-Fi beats both adopt equally mellow yet motivating rhythms to boost productivity.

‘Your Kitchen Stereo’ - by Spotify:

Being alone in a new city for the first time might arouse instinctual feelings of homesickness. When loneliness strikes, this playlist functions as a loyal companion, boasting a collection of warm, wholesome and soothing background songs that foster a sense of familiarity and comfort. This meditative playlist inspires contentment, transforms dorm rooms into homes, and has absolutely served its purpose in my own times of need.

‘UCL Freshers Biggest Indie Hits’ - by Sound of UCL:

Finally, this playlist is engineered by UCL to prepare you for London’s unrivalled party scene. Remember, London is expensive... So don’t forget to pre!