I feel like a broken record on this point, but I think this is a message worth repeating: be careful about what you post on social media sites! Schools can - and sometimes will - review a student’s social media posts if they have questions or concerns. When you choose to put it out there you forfeit any purported right to privacy. Period.
I’ve spoken before about Harvard University’s 2017 decision to rescind the acceptances of 10 students for offensive Facebook posts (https://www.npr.org/sections/ed/2017/06/06/531591202/harvard-rescinds-admission-of-10-students-over-obscene-facebook-messages). Well, Marquette University has just rescinded an athletic recruit’s acceptance and scholarship for a racist (and highly disturbing) Snapchat post regarding the George Floyd tragedy. (https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/marquette-university-rescinds-recruits-admission-scholarship-over-george-floyd-snapchat-post). Like all decent people around the country - and the world - I’m furious and heartbroken over Mr. Floyd’s murder and the systemic racial problems that plague our nation. And, like Marquette University, I’m horrified by the student’s post.
This is an extreme example, to be certain, and I definitely do not believe that most young people share this student’s sentiments regarding the treatment of Mr. Floyd. Yet, I reference it to underscore the point that social media posts have consequences: in college - in employment - in life. Do not be fooled by the notion that posts on sites like Instagram and Snapchat are somehow temporary. Once posted, your words, pictures, and thoughts will remain forever in the information underground. Even if a post is the result of carelessness (rather than something more malignant) it can indicate a lack of good judgment, and good judgment really matters. Colleges are looking for character and judgment in addition to scholarship, talent, and ability. As well they should be! In the span of four short years you will go from applicant to alum and, as such, you will be an ambassador for their institution, their mission and their values.
I genuinely believe that most people have good hearts and intentions. Having said that, your social media presence is akin to your fingerprint. What do you want it to say about you?
