By: Stephanie Strickland

Olivia Elmo was ecstatic to walk off Flavet Field Thursday with a souvenir — X Ambassadors’ Adam Levin’s drumstick.

“The show was a dream come true,” the UF anthropology sophomore said as she clutched the drumstick, which was thrown into the crowd just minutes earlier.

Elmo has been following the X Ambassadors from the start, and she was well prepared for the live performance.

I listened to all of their albums on repeat and even had a little dance party in my dorm,” she said.

The Independent Florida Alligator reported that approximately 6,000 to 8,000 students swayed and danced to the free performance by X Ambassadors.

Samuel Campisano, a UF journalism freshman, said being around fellow students and listening to live music is the best way to unwind.

“Music is always a great way to destress,” he said.

Like Elmo, Campisano was a fan of X Ambassadors long before Student Government Productions announced the alternative rock band would pay a visit to Gainesville.

Campisano also listened to Real Estate, the opening act for the X Ambassadors.

“When I heard they were both coming to campus, I had to check it out,” he said.

The X Ambassadors promoted unity by pausing between songs, as the lead singer Sam Harris reminded students that, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity or religion they affiliate with, they were accepted.

Caroline Gabay, a UF nursing freshman, was less familiar with the bands featured at the concert but appreciated the opportunity to take part in a unifying event for the student body.

“(The music) brings all of us together – united,” Gabay said.