How social media can make or break your college admission chances

India Today

24-06-2025

Today, when social media is simultaneously a digital diary and a networking tool, students tend to downplay the strength of their online footprints. College admissions committees, especially at top US, UK, and now increasingly Indian, institutions, have started including social media assessments as part of their holistic review process. Though admissions committees mainly review academic records, extracurricular accomplishments, and personal essays, a student's online presence can support their application or be a cause for concern.advertisementManali Dogra, Associate Partner 2 at Athena Education, highlights how college admissions today extend beyond grades and essays. A student's social media presence is now a powerful, often overlooked, part of the selection process.WHAT ADMISSION OFFICERS WANTAdmissions officers are most interested in ensuring that a student's application is consistent with their online presence. They tend to look for:Exhibitions of leadership, enthusiasm, and initiative - A thoughtfully constructed LinkedIn or blog featuring research, projects, or volunteer activities can reinforce an application.Community participation - Students that stand up for a cause, engage in quality discussions, or share valuable content that pertains to their line of interest have a positive influence.Professionalism and maturity - Messages that project responsibility, thoughtful reflection, and intellectual curiosity catch the attention of the evaluators.Red flags - Inappropriate language, offensive memes, cyberbullying, or questionable affiliations can be a cause for concern and even risk an admission offer.HOW TO CURATE A POSITIVE DIGITAL FOOTPRINTadvertisement1. Audit your existing profilesConduct a Google search of your name to see what appears. Review all social media accounts-Instagram, Twitter (X), LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, and even Reddit-and delete or archive any posts that could be misconstrued. Remove any posts that contain profanity, discriminatory remarks, or content that may reflect poorly on your character.2. Align your online presence with your applicationYour social media must supplement your academic and extracurricular record. If you've included a research project in your college application, share your findings or experience on LinkedIn. If you're interested in environmental sustainability, use your Instagram or Twitter (X) to promote climate action or highlight associated initiatives you've taken.3. Set privacy controls wiselyWhile it's not necessary to make every account public, ensure that even private accounts reflect your best self. Admissions officers might not access private content, but mutual connections or tagged photos can still reveal aspects of your personality. Avoid sharing posts that may be misinterpreted or taken out of context.4. Leverage linkedIn and personal websitesLinkedIn is a great way for students to highlight achievements, extracurricular activities, and professional ambitions. Developing an easy personal site or portfolio of research work, blog entries, or creative activities can build an engaging online presence that admissions representatives value.advertisement5. Steer clear of controversial or misleading contentColleges prize students who are able to engage in tolerant views. Avoid inflammatory political diatribes, insensitive humor, or statements that can alienate particular communities. Rather, be concerned with productive conversation and critical thinking.As digital trails have become a defining aspect of contemporary identity, it is important for students to engage their online existence as an extension of their own personal brand-a brand that exhibits authenticity, responsibility, and dedication to growth.- EndsTune InMust Watch