Should colleges look at social media?

Hey everyone! I wanted to get your thoughts on whether colleges should be looking at applicants' social media profiles during the admissions process. Do you think it's fair / necessary?

I've definitely heard varying opinions on this topic, so I understand why you might be curious. While colleges certainly have an interest in learning more about applicants and getting a complete picture of them, social media might not always be the best or most accurate representation of a person. Additionally, there could be issues with privacy and fairness, as it's difficult to ensure that all applicants are evaluated in the same way when it comes to social media.

On the other hand, for certain programs or schools that place an emphasis on character or leadership, looking at an applicant's social media presence could provide valuable insights that may not be found in other parts of the application. For example, if a student has a history of cyberbullying or misconduct on social media, it might be relevant to the admissions committee.

Overall, I think it's important for applicants to be mindful of their online presence and ensure that it aligns with the image they want to present to colleges. However, I personally believe that colleges should focus on the information provided in the application and use discretion when it comes to reviewing social media profiles. There should be some form of protocol and balance when evaluating applicants' online presence to ensure fairness and consistency in the admissions process.