Social Networking in Today’s Society

by Ezimma Nnyagu
(Austell, Georgia, United States)

College Essay Social Media - Each day more users join in search of new friends and experiences. Seventy-three percent of all teens in America have profiles on at least one social media site. Websites like Facebook and Twitter allow teens to express themselves, in all their creativity. Although this is true, many young adults use social media sites for destructive purposes instead.

The decisions made during teen years directly affect quality of life in the years that follow. It is believed that the time spent in adolescence is the most crucial period in human development. During those years, teens identify their likes and dislikes and form their own identities. Social networking sites allow teens to articulate those identities. After forming preferences, teens begin to gravitate towards those with similar beliefs. Social media sites are a domain for self discovery, a virtual way to share ideas and connect with peers.

No teen readily accepts the idea of being stifled or muted. Each young adult wants to be taken seriously when their opinions are voiced. Blog sites like Tumblr, act as virtual portals of expression. Here bloggers post poetry, inspirational quotes, art (primarily photography), and even music, in an attempt to make a statement, take a stand, or even be discovered. Many talented musicians, artists, and writers post their material on popular social media sites, which offer several opportunities for networking. Although some social network users take advantage of social media sites in vocationally constructive ways, countless users simply access the sites for entertainment purposes. Teens upload pictures and videos and comment on others user profiles, while also posting status updates and chatting with fellow users. In addition to this, social media sites also allow users to participate in activities like games and surveys.

Social media sites are quickly transforming into a place filled with predators and bullies. Though social media sites offer several recreational advantages, certain issues leave much to be desired. Instead of using virtual domains to express their creativity, some teens use the sites as a tool for harassment. These teens post lies, embarrassing pictures, and sometimes even personal information in order to torment other users. These actions have a monumental affect on the victims. Some teens commit suicide, while others murder their attackers. Furthermore, several teen students are never bullied, but instead overuse social media sites. In effect, they neglect their studies and responsibilities, ultimately causing them to be less reliable.

Social networking sites can be a dangerous place for adolescents, but with the proper precautions and guidelines, teens can avoid any negative influence that may confront them. A majority of the issues teens face regarding social media sites can be solved with the click of a few buttons. By simply pressing delete or block, teens can avoid a bully almost entirely. Through sheer resolve, students can make the decision to turn off the computer and face their studies. Although these solutions may seem simple, it is important to remember that the journey of a thousand miles begins with one single step.

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Thank you Ezimma for submitting your college essay about the value and dangers of social media to teens. We will include this in our collection of College Admission Essays. Good luck to you in your college education.

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