Notre Dame Taylor Swift album: In his final Inside column, Andrew Marciano reflects on his experiences at Notre Dame over the past four years and how they shaped him into the person he is today, using Taylor Swift’s albums as a backdrop.
Notre Dame and Taylor Swift: A Journey of Growth and Reflection
As I bid farewell to my time at Notre Dame, I find myself reflecting on the past four years and the experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. Through it all, Taylor Swift’s music has been a constant companion, providing a soundtrack to my journey.
“Lover”: Embracing New Beginnings and Navigating Change
In my senior year of high school, as the world grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic, Taylor Swift released her album “Lover.” This album marked a time of transition and change as I left the familiar surroundings of San Diego for the unpredictable weather of South Bend, Indiana.
Navigating College Life
College life brought its own set of challenges, from adjusting to dorm life and subpar dining hall food to dealing with the stress of exams and assignments. Yet, amidst the chaos, I found solace in the music of “Lover,” which reminded me of the beauty of new beginnings and the importance of embracing change.
“Folklore” and “Evermore”: Finding Hope and Maturity
My freshman year at Notre Dame was marked by the release of Taylor Swift’s albums “folklore” and “evermore.” These albums captured the essence of the ups and downs of college life, from the excitement of newfound friendships to the challenges of navigating relationships and personal growth.
Rainy Days and Friendship
The rainy, pumpkin spice-esque days of freshman year were often accompanied by the sounds of “folklore” and “evermore.” These albums provided a sense of comfort and companionship, particularly during a time when I felt lost and alone. The song “peace” became an anthem of friendship, reminding me that I was not alone in my struggles and that true friends would always be there for me.
Maturity and Resilience
“Evermore” represented a sense of maturity and resilience that I gained throughout my college years. The album’s themes of growth and self-acceptance resonated with me as I navigated the challenges of college life and discovered more about myself.
“Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” and “Red (Taylor’s Version)”: Navigating Friendships and Heartbreak
Sophomore year brought with it the release of “Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” and “Red (Taylor’s Version).” These albums explored the complexities of friendship and heartbreak, themes that were all too familiar to me at the time.
The Importance of Communication
“Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” highlighted the importance of taking risks and trying new things, while “Red (Taylor’s Version)” delved into the pain and heartache of a broken friendship. These albums taught me the value of communication and taking responsibility for one’s actions in relationships.
“Midnights” and “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)”: Self-Reflection and Letting Go
My junior year was marked by the release of Taylor Swift’s albums “Midnights” and “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version).” These albums explored themes of self-reflection, heartbreak, and the importance of speaking up for what you believe in.
Self-Reflection and Growth
“Midnights” encouraged me to reflect on my own actions and motivations, while “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)” empowered me to stand up for what I believe in. These albums helped me grow as a person and become more confident in my own voice.
“1989 (Taylor’s Version)” and “Reputation”: Embracing the Future and Leaving the Past Behind
As I entered my senior year at Notre Dame, Taylor Swift released “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” and “Reputation.” These albums marked a time of transition and growth as I prepared to leave college and enter the real world.
Letting Go of the Past
“1989 (Taylor’s Version)” celebrated the importance of embracing the future and letting go of the past. “Reputation” highlighted the value of surrounding yourself with people who love and support you, regardless of the drama and negativity that may come your way.
Wrapping Up
As I conclude my time at Notre Dame, I am grateful for the experiences that have shaped me and the friendships that I have made. Taylor Swift’s music has been a constant companion throughout my journey, providing a soundtrack to my triumphs and tribulations. I am excited for the future and the opportunities that lie ahead, and I know that Taylor Swift’s music will continue to inspire and uplift me along the way.
FAQ’s
1. How did Taylor Swift’s music impact your college experience?
Taylor Swift’s music provided a soundtrack to my college journey, offering comfort, companionship, and a sense of growth and self-acceptance.
2. Which Taylor Swift album resonated with you the most during your freshman year?
The albums “folklore” and “evermore” captured the ups and downs of freshman year, providing comfort and companionship during times of loneliness and uncertainty.
3. How did Taylor Swift’s music help you navigate the challenges of sophomore year?
“Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” and “Red (Taylor’s Version)” explored themes of friendship and heartbreak, helping me learn the value of communication and taking responsibility in relationships.
4. What role did Taylor Swift’s music play in your personal growth during junior year?
“Midnights” and “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)” encouraged self-reflection and empowerment, helping me grow as a person and become more confident in my voice.
5. How did Taylor Swift’s music influence your transition into senior year and beyond?
“1989 (Taylor’s Version)” and “Reputation” celebrated embracing the future and letting go of the past, providing inspiration and motivation as I prepared to enter the real world.
