Connecting with the Campus Community:
The first few days of university life are always the most daunting. One of the most crucial advantages of social media is the ability to help you connect with your university community even before your first day. Remember to check out facebook groups dedicated to your year, course, and even specific to your interests. This is an ideal space to share information, ask questions, and find like-minded friends. It helps ease feelings of homesickness and loneliness, especially in your first year.
Strengthening Existing Relationships:
When you hear the term social media, you immediately think of Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok and the million distractions and hours of scrolling that come with it. But what we often forget is that apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, WeChat, FaceTime, etc, all offer ways to keep in touch with your friends and family, even if they are in a different city, state or country. Making groups with your classmates and friends from university on these platforms can also foster better teamwork and communication. Think of those pesky group projects… now they’ll get executed like a breeze.
Boosting Academic Success:
Your LinkedIn game is as important as the followers you have on Instagram. When it comes to building a professional network and beginning that job hunt after graduating, LinkedIn helps connect students with employers, corporations, look for internships and a lot more. Platforms that help you create forums where you can discuss assignments, share tips, and encourage research, will help you stand out from your peers.
The Downside of Likes and Shares:
Despite its advantages, social media can also negatively impact university life and relationships. The curated and often unrealistic portrayals of success on social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and social comparison. Students might constantly compare their own experiences to the seemingly perfect lives showcased online, potentially causing anxiety or depression. This phenomenon, known as "FOMO" (fear of missing out), can be detrimental to well-being.
Cyberbullying and Online Harassment:
Unfortunately, social media can also be a breeding ground for cyberbullying and online harassment. The anonymity offered by the online world emboldens some to engage in cruel and hurtful behavior. This can take a significant toll on a student's mental health, impacting academic performance and relationships.
Time Management and Procrastination:
The constant allure of social media notifications can become a significant distraction for students. Spending excessive time scrolling through endless feeds can lead to procrastination and hinder focus on studies. This can lead to poor time management, decreased academic performance, and increased stress.
Privacy Concerns and Oversharing:
Oversharing on social media can pose privacy risks for students. Sharing personal information or engaging in inappropriate online activities can have lasting consequences, impacting future career prospects or personal safety. Universities often have social media policies that students should be aware of to avoid disciplinary action.
Strategies for a Healthy Social Media Life
Fortunately, there are ways to leverage social media's benefits while mitigating its potential pitfalls.
- Prioritize Face-to-Face Interaction: Make time for real-world interactions with peers by attending campus events, joining clubs, or simply grabbing a coffee with classmates.
- Curate Your Feed: Unfollow accounts that evoke negative emotions or promote unrealistic standards.
- Set Time Limits: Designate specific times to check social media and stick to them. Utilize features like app timers to restrict usage.
- Maintain Privacy Settings: Review and adjust your privacy settings regularly to control who sees your information.
- Seek Support: If you encounter cyberbullying or online harassment, report it and seek help from university resources or trusted adults.
Vishwakarma University and Beyond
Vishwakarma University, Pune, encourages a well-rounded student experience, balancing academic pursuits with social and personal development. Social media can be a valuable tool in this journey, but responsible use is crucial. By being mindful and adopting healthy habits, students at Vishwakarma University can harness the power of social media to enhance their university experience and forge strong, lasting relationships.
