Have you ever noticed how some people share pictures online that might be a bit too revealing? It seems like they do this to get attention or to connect with people they don’t really know. Sometimes, people even post things that might be disrespectful, especially if their parents or family members can see them. It’s important to think about how your posts might be seen by the people you care about.
Some people post pictures of themselves without shirts, which might be okay at the beach, but not so much in a casual setting like a bathroom. Did you know that many colleges look at social media profiles when deciding who to admit? Some of my friends try to hide their profiles by changing their names, but I didn’t feel the need to do that. I believe my profile shows a positive side of me, and it might have even helped me get into San Francisco State University.
On my profile, I have lots of pictures with my family, showing that I’m active and involved with them. I also share updates about my work as a community organizer with an organization called Youth Together, and about my music. I take my responsibilities seriously, especially since I have two younger sisters to look after. I avoid posting pictures from parties or anything that might be seen as inappropriate. I think colleges will appreciate my Facebook page because it shows that I lead an active and responsible life.
Overall, I hope there’s nothing on my profile that could negatively affect how people see me. It’s important to be proud of your digital footprint and to make sure it reflects who you really are. Remember, what you post online can have a big impact on your future, so always think before you post!
Write a journal entry about a time you posted something online that you later regretted or were proud of. Reflect on how it might have affected your digital footprint and what you learned from the experience.
Create a digital collage that represents your current online image. Include images, words, and symbols that you think best showcase your personality and values. Share your collage with the class and explain your choices.
In small groups, act out scenarios where you must decide whether or not to post certain content online. Discuss the potential consequences of each decision and how it might impact your digital footprint.
Conduct an audit of your social media profiles. Identify any posts or images that might not reflect your best self. Discuss with a partner how you can improve your online presence to better align with your personal and academic goals.
Write a letter to your future self about how you want your digital footprint to look in five years. Include goals for your online presence and steps you will take to ensure it reflects your true self.
Here’s a sanitized version of the transcript:
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I’ve seen pictures where people share images that are quite revealing. I feel like these images aren’t as explicit in person, but they post them to attract attention or connect with people they don’t know. Sometimes, people share statuses that seem disrespectful, especially if their parents are part of their social media network. I believe it’s important to be respectful to those around you and to consider how your posts might be perceived by people you care about, including family members.
Some individuals post pictures of themselves without shirts, and while I understand that sharing beach photos is acceptable, posting casual bathroom selfies can come across as unprofessional. I’ve heard that many colleges actually check social media profiles to help decide if they want to admit students. Some of my friends change their names to avoid being found, but I didn’t feel the need to do that. I believe my profile reflects positively on me, and it may have even helped me get admitted to San Francisco State.
I think my profile shows that I’m active with my family, as I have many pictures with them. I also share statuses related to my work as a community organizer with an organization called Youth Together, as well as my music. I take my responsibilities seriously, especially since I have two younger sisters to care for. I don’t post pictures from parties or anything that might be seen as inappropriate. I believe colleges will appreciate my Facebook page because it reflects my active and responsible lifestyle. Overall, I hope there’s nothing on my profile that would negatively impact my image.
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This version maintains the original message while removing any potentially inappropriate or explicit content.
Digital – Relating to technology or electronic systems that use computer technology. – In today’s world, having digital skills is essential for effective communication and research in social studies.
Footprint – The impact or impression left by a person or activity, often used in the context of one’s online presence. – Students should be aware of their digital footprint, as it can affect their reputation and opportunities in the future.
Online – Connected to or available through the internet. – Many educational resources are now available online, making it easier for students to access information for their social studies projects.
Image – A representation of the external form of a person or thing in art or media, or the general impression that a person, organization, or product presents to the public. – Maintaining a positive image online is important for students who want to apply to colleges.
Profile – A description or representation of someone’s personal details and interests, often used on social media or professional networking sites. – Creating a professional profile on LinkedIn can help students connect with colleges and future employers.
Colleges – Institutions of higher education that offer undergraduate programs and sometimes graduate programs. – Many colleges now consider a student’s online presence as part of their admissions process.
Responsible – Having an obligation to do something, or having control over or care for someone, as part of one’s job or role. – Being responsible with your online activities is crucial to maintaining a good reputation.
Community – A group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common, or a feeling of fellowship with others. – Participating in online forums can help students become part of a global community interested in social studies.
Share – To give a portion of something to others or to let others have access to something. – Students are encouraged to share their social studies projects online to receive feedback and engage with a wider audience.
Future – The time or a period of time following the moment of speaking or writing; time regarded as still to come. – Understanding how to communicate effectively online is a skill that will benefit students in the future.
