Reputation Review: Critical first step in the college process

A reputation review? Really? Has social media really become an important aspect in the college application process?

Without a doubt, colleges and universities are reaching out to students in the format teenagers are most comfortable receiving information in this era. Social media. Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are just a few of the ways in which college admission departments are reaching out to students, advertising their application processes, deadlines and other important information. If colleges are turning to social media for their own benefit, they are also using it to preview college applicants to their institutions.

Nearly half of all college admission personnel admitted to checking social media sites to research applicants backgrounds. This presents high school students with an additional task in the college process: clean up your online profile! The earlier the better. This process should begin early in a students junior year. This will allow the potential applicant time to resolve any problems that may arise in the reputation review. Students should continue to be vigilant about their online profile throughout the admission process, and while they are at it, keep checking from time to time.Soon enough they will be applying for a job.

The following from Tech Web Buzz offers step-by-step instructions for a reputation review:http://www.techwebbuzz.com/2013/07/social-media-checklist-for-college-applicants.html?m=1

As a school counselor  and college adviser in Westchester County, I urge my students to take control of their online profile. I do not want their hard work, test prep and extracurricular achievements to be overshadowed by a tarnished online reputation. 

Visit kwilsoncollegeadviser.com for more information on the services I offer in my work with students. Good luck in the college process!

Kristina