Social Media in College Admissions: How to Use the Internet Without Screwing Up Your Future

Alright, let’s talk about social media and college admissions. Yes, it’s true—admissions officers might peek at your Instagram or TikTok. But this isn’t the time to freak out and start deleting every post you’ve ever made. Instead, let’s be smart about how you can use the internet to showcase the awesome, unique person you are. Spoiler alert: When used thoughtfully, social media can help you stand out in a sea of applicants. That said, it’s a double-edged sword—colleges can also use it to uncover red flags.

Clean It Up, But Keep It Real

First things first: give your profiles a once-over. Ask yourself, “Would I be embarrassed if my future college’s dean saw this?” If the answer is yes, it’s time to delete. This includes:

• Party pics with questionable beverages (even if it’s just sparkling apple juice).
• Rants dripping with negativity.
• Anything that could be interpreted as rude, offensive, or petty. No Comments that seem mean-spirited or overly negative
  

Think of it this way: If you wouldn’t want it projected on a giant screen during your admissions interview, it’s probably best to delete it. That said, don’t go overboard and scrub your online presence entirely. Colleges want to see you, not a perfect robot with no digital footprint.

Use Social Media to Showcase Your Passions

Think of social media as a portfolio for your interests. Love painting? Start an Etsy shop and post your creations. Obsessed with music? Share recordings on SoundCloud. Passionate about writing? Publish short stories on Wattpad or Medium.

Here’s why this works: Colleges aren’t just looking for good grades—they want students who are interesting. By showing off your creative side online, you’re basically saying, “Hey, look at all the cool stuff I do in my free time!”

Start a Blog or Website

If you want to go all out, create a personal website. It’s easier than you think (hello, Wix and Squarespace!) and can be a one-stop shop for your achievements, portfolio, and contact info. This is especially helpful if you’re applying for programs in art, writing, or tech.

Bonus: Add the link to your Common App or application resume. It’s a subtle but effective way to stand out.

TikTok and Instagram: More Than Memes

Social media doesn’t have to be all selfies and memes (though we love a good meme). Use platforms like TikTok and Instagram to create content around your interests:

• Are you a math whiz? Post mini tutorials.
• Love baking? Share recipes and tutorials.
• Passionate about activism? Document your volunteer work.

Admissions officers who stumble upon your profiles will see you’re not just scrolling aimlessly—you’re actually doing something cool.

Engage, But Don’t Overshare

Yes, colleges love students who are active and engaged, but there’s a line between sharing and oversharing. Stick to content that’s relevant to your interests, hobbies, or achievements. You don’t need to document every Starbucks run or rant about how annoying group projects are.

Don’t Be a Jerk Online

This one should be obvious, but here we are: Don’t post mean comments, start arguments, or engage in drama. Colleges are big on “community values,” and a quick scroll through your Twitter can tell them a lot about whether you’re a team player—or someone who might end up in the dean’s office.

Search Yourself

Google your name. Seriously. Do it. This is what admissions officers might do, so you want to know what’s out there. If anything questionable pops up, address it ASAP.

The Internet Is Forever—Act Like It

Even if you delete something, there’s always a chance someone screenshotted it. Think twice before posting anything that could come back to haunt you. If you wouldn’t say it in an interview, don’t say it online.

Be Intentional, Not Perfect

Social media isn’t the enemy—it’s a tool. When used wisely, it can make you stand out in the best way possible. So, embrace the platforms you love, showcase your passions, and remember: the internet is your stage, not your diary.

Now go forth and post responsibly, future college star. You’ve got this.