Having Jamie around was a game-changer. My partner and I enjoyed the freedom to go out whenever we pleased, relishing the late nights and carefree drinks, a luxury granted by having fantastic childcare. But as August approached, it was time for Jamie to return to college, which meant our social life would take a hit. I quickly added her on Facebook and followed her on Instagram, promising to stay connected until the summer rolled around again.
One evening in October, my partner called me over. He was perched on the couch, intensely focused on his laptop. I walked over curiously to see what had captured his attention. “Look at this,” he said, turning the screen toward me.
There she was: Jamie, our Jamie. On Facebook, no less. She was holding a cigarette, posing next to a bong, dressed in a crop top and shorts, and locking lips with both a girl and a guy at once. Talk about an awkward moment!
As I hastily clicked the “unfollow” button, hoping to shield myself from the unfiltered reality of college life, a recent article from Time revealed that high school students are eagerly exploring these types of raw accounts—primarily on Instagram, where they’ve migrated—to help them choose their future schools.
One student told Time, “It’s like getting a tour from a real student who isn’t being paid to show you around or share what the admissions office wants you to know. You get an authentic glimpse into college life.” That thought might send chills down your spine, but it’s quite clever when you consider that Instagram launched in 2010, allowing the class of 2015 to document their complete high school experiences. Seeking out college students doing the same is just a natural progression. After all, how else can prospective students learn about the vibrant social scenes, the best dorms, and the ideal nights out (hint: typically Thursday)?
To discover these unsanctioned accounts, start by checking out a school’s official Instagram feed. From there, delve into geotagged locations and specific hashtags related to the institution for a flood of images shared by actual students. If that last bit sounded like gibberish, perhaps it’s time to consider your own college applications.
For more insights into the journey of parenthood, check out our other blog post about the home insemination kit. You might also find valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination at Cleveland Clinic’s podcast which offers excellent resources. And to ensure you’re well-informed on all things related to self-care, check out this authority on the topic.
In summary, social media has transformed the way high school students research colleges, providing an authentic look at campus life through the lens of current students. By leveraging Instagram and other platforms, they can make more informed decisions about their future.