Social media has become a new lens for students when it comes to choosing their future schools. Many seniors in the Class of 2025 are using YouTube, Instagram and TikTok as aids in making one of the biggest decisions of their lives. These short videos that vary from “day in the life” vlogs and dorm tours to honest lists of pros and cons, give the latest news about campuses without needing students to take a single step.

Like five-star Yelp reviews, viral videos are made by real students for new students. These online posts are being added to the list of factors that students take into account when making a decision. Whether it’s a visually appealing dorm room or someone venting about the flaws of the school, it’s a fresh viewpoint that fits in the palm of your hand. Likewise, a 20-second video has the power to completely change someone’s opinion.

However, senior Victoria Higareda believes in keeping a balance between online opinions and personal judgment.

“I take what people say about college on social media with a grain of salt. I’m a firm believer that not everything on social media is real,” Higareda said.

She recognizes however, that some videos such as those that showed off the dorms or gave an overview of campus life were helpful. It gave her ideas and helped her picture her future.

While noting the role of social media, senior Alexis Arias warns against placing too much trust in anything found online.

“Lots of seniors may base their decisions off of what they see online, even though it may be too good to be true. They should spend time thoroughly researching their schools,” Arias said.

Senior Daisy Villalobos admits that certain posts almost changed her mind.

“I saw some videos that made me rethink applying to a school just because of what past students said. It can so easily influence how people see the school,” Villalobos said.

Students generally agree that social media has impacted their experience even if they don’t trust it completely. They can use the content to help them pack or get ready for college life.

“I like searching for what types of things to bring to my dorm room and from what I have seen they have really good advice,” Villalobos said.

However, some students feel as if social media isn’t a necessary tool when looking at schools.

“I haven’t looked up any college videos at all. I’m more focused on the people I’ll be around, not the food or rooms,” Arias said.

Even though it might not be the last word when making decisions, social media is definitely addressed by some seniors. Final decisions may have been made by visiting campuses, attending college fairs, or even by a few swipes on a phone. There’s no denying that college decisions are no longer just made in counselor offices. Sometimes, they are even made in comment sections.