Social media has always been a space where people can connect, network, and keep in touch. In this age of information and experiences, this has become increasingly important. When I first started out on social media, I was more of a passive participant. I would rarely post on Instagram or comment on my classmates’ Facebook statuses. To me, it never seemed important to have a strong social media presence. Who really cared if I had Coco Puffs for breakfast or missed the bus the morning of an exam? The constant update of where I was and what I was doing seemed way too personal to be shared on the internet.
This was all before I encountered news outlets and world leaders sharing news and the current state of global affairs that I realized that social media could have a greater purpose. I discovered that not only could I interact with friends but I could also get a glimpse into the lives of other people all over the world.
This is how world leaders have reacted to Donald Trump's #MuslimBan. pic.twitter.com/B4SRmqbT6A
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) January 29, 2017
As I continued to expand my network and interact with more people, it became apparent to me that opinions and news all over the world was being shared at the click of a button. I wanted to become a part of a larger community than just high school friends and family.
#trump,this time you will hear from EPN the proud,firm voice of Mexico about walls,nafta & the dignity of our people both in US $ MX
— Vicente Fox Quesada (@VicenteFoxQue) January 25, 2017
Social media changed me by making me more aware of my role as a global citizen. It allows me to interact in real time and discuss the issues with the people who are actually experiencing them. Hashtags have been especially useful in creating some of this global awareness. They are used to connect a wide range of people on the internet to one another and foster a sense of community.