The adjustment from high school to college is not an easy one.
A significant part of the adjustment will be dealing with pressure to perform well in classes, pressure to make the grade, as well as social stresses. Many students find refuge in a creative outlet.
For Bill Burton, a senior University of Nebraska-Lincoln psychology major, that outlet is live music.
"Some nights during the school week, if you do a bunch of homework, heading straight to a show afterward is a good release," Burton said.
He said through his years as a student, the studying workload has been substantial.
"It seems like professors load on the coursework as if they think you don't have other classes," he said. "Having large amounts of homework and important exams puts on a lot of pressure."
Burton explained that live music is a good way to relieve tension. He further explained other benefits of being involved with the local music scene.
"Being at a show is a great way to interact with friends," he said. "Somehow it's very different than listening to an iPod. You meet people that you might not meet otherwise and develop friendships."
Mary Swoboda, a counselor with Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), seemed to share Burton's ideas on the importance of friendship.
"It's important for students to find something they like and build a support system around that," Swoboda said. "Students need to understand themselves and what works for them. Live music could most certainly be what works."
CAPS, located in the UNL Health Center at 1500 U St, is a program put in place for students.
Counselors and therapists talk to students about topics ranging from everyday school stresses to serious issues like anxiety, depression and eating disorders. Students can find out more information by visiting http://health.unl.edu/students/caps.
"Students come in for a variety of reasons, and we talk to them about their specific concerns," Swoboda said. "The transition from high school to college is tough, perhaps because it's easier to be involved in high school. It's important for students to know what's available to them."
There are various ways to get involved with the local music scene in Lincoln. The most obvious way is to attend a show.
Jeremy "Dub" Wardlaw, who books the shows at Duffy's Tavern, located at 1412 O St. He explained the importance of live music to him and how he decides which bands to schedule.
"Live music is everything, and I try to take myself and my personal tastes out of the equation when I book a show," Wardlaw said. "I don't discriminate against any band that I feel has talent."
Wardlaw explained that Duffy's has something for everyone and stressed the importance of seeking out local bands. A typical show consists of one touring band and two local bands.
Duffy's exhibits live music Sunday and Wednesday nights and on various Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Duffy's also does live karaoke every Thursday.
heatherberney@dailynebraskan.com
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