Dr. Aaron Rochlen used music to unlock conversations about meaning, identity and mortality — themes that resonate deeply with students navigating adulthood during the most recent Lunch & Learn, presented by the Moritz Center for Societal Impact.
Rochlen, who joined the Moritz Center as program director for arts and humanities, led an interactive session exploring the human connection to music and why the combination of lyrics and music can unlock emotions.
Drawing on existential therapy principles, Rochlen explored themes that resonate with college students: defining yourself, setting personal boundaries, choosing a vocational path, finding community and confronting pain, regret and death.
“Many times we find that music communicates and teaches us better than words alone can,” Rochlen said as he cued up “A Little Bit of Everything” by Dawes.
Rochlen is a clinical professor who teaches UGS Signature courses “Music and Mental Health” and “Movies and Mental Health.” He also hosts “Under The Rock,” a concert series exploring the intersection of music and psychology.
For an example of Rochlen’s commentary on the psychological applications of music, watch this recording of his interview with Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes from 2021.
Join us in December
The Moritz Center’s Lunch & Learn series continues in December when Dr. Akram Al-Turk discusses advancing a research agenda to promote housing stability and prevent homelessness on Wednesday, Dec. 3, at 11:30 a.m. in Walter Webb Hall’s second-floor common room. Bring your lunch — drinks and snacks will be provided. The session is open to all.