Video by Caitlyn Monse
Students Interviewed:
Monica Moran
Jack Ficklen
Courtney Powell
Jacob Bishop

Everyone has seen those kids in the hallway that have their iPod out and the headphones firmly planted in their ears. But have you ever wondered what their listening to or why they always have it out?

It was announced at the beginning of this school year that students would be permitted to have their iPods and cell phones out during passing periods. It’s no surprise that the students embraced the privilege, some taking out their iPods at any chance they get, always listening to something as they hurried through the crowd and to their next class. Is it only because they want to listen to music, or is there a deeper reason behind it?

According to studies at Sanford University, music can actually cause the brain to pay more attention. Whether that’s the reason students use them so much or not isn’t for sure, but it certainly makes their time in the halls a little better.

“If I’m listening to it in class, I can still have it out in the hallway during passing periods,” junior Amber Carter said. “I don’t have to worry about teachers telling me not to have it out in the hall and it makes time in the hall a little more enjoyable.”

Music is commonly used as a stress reliever, something that can come in very hand in the chaotic confines of school. With stress from homework, friends, jobs and home life, music can prove a good tool to use to calm down. With iPods allowed now, students have the opportunity to take a little break before class and relax instead of being constantly bombarded with lectures and class work.

Having an iPod to listen to in the hallway can just be fun for the listener. If they aren’t happy with what the school plays during passing periods, their music serves as an alternative and one that they’ll like.

“If I don’t like what they play in the hallway, I always have the option of listening to my iPod,” senior Matthew Cardenas. “It makes the halls less boring if I can listen to what I want rather than listening to whatever the school picks.”

Whatever music you listen to or your reasons for listening to it, it’s obvious that the school made the right decision when it comes to students and their iPods.