Should Colleges Look at a Student’s Social Media?

The debate over whether colleges should consider a student's social media activity during the admissions process is complex and multifaceted. On one side, there is a belief that character matters, and social media can provide valuable insights into a student's behavior and values. On the other side, there are valid concerns about privacy and the potential for misunderstandings or misinterpretations.

Pro Arguments for Considering Social Media

Character Matters: Many argue that a student's online presence reflects their character and values. Social media can offer glimpses into how a student conducts themselves in social settings, their interests, and their attitudes. This can be particularly relevant if a potential student is applying to a field where ethical behavior is paramount, such as healthcare, law, or finance.

Preparation for Adulthood: College is often seen as a stepping stone to independent living. By monitoring social media, colleges can assess whether a student is ready for the challenges of adulthood, including making responsible decisions and managing their online reputation.

Counterarguments and Privacy Concerns

Privacy Rights: Students have the right to their privacy, and many argue that it is unethical for colleges to review their social media without explicit consent. This can be particularly problematic as students may not be aware that their social media activity is being monitored.

Inaccuracies and Misinterpretations: Social media posts can be taken out of context or misinterpreted. A simple mistake or a moment of poor judgment can be misused, leading to unfair treatment or even denial of admission.

Practical Considerations

Techniques to Mask Presence: Many students are aware of methods to hide their online presence. A simple name change or the use of a different profile picture can make it nearly impossible to track down a given individual. Additionally, students often create multiple accounts to mask their actions.

Weight of Evidence: Even if colleges can access a student's social media, it is crucial that such information be used judiciously. Other factors, such as academic achievements and extracurricular activities, should be the primary focus when making admissions decisions.

Personal Experience: A Cautionary Tale

Sue Donem shared a first-hand account of her experience with a college that reviewed her social media:

“As a victim of hacking, cyberstalking, and programmatic incompetence from the school, looking at my social media at the time they thought it was my profile, I have to express my disgust and contempt with administration that choose to overstep and mangle their boundaries of issues that relate to academic performance.”

Donem's experience highlights the importance of respecting student privacy and focusing on relevant academic criteria.

Conclusion

The debate over whether colleges should consider a student's social media activity remains unresolved. While there is a case for using social media as a supplementary tool, it is crucial to balance this with the respect for student privacy and the potential for misuse of information. Colleges should adhere to strict guidelines and ensure that any review of social media is conducted in a fair and ethical manner.

Ultimately, the goal should be to create a transparent and fair admissions process that helps identify the best candidates for higher education.