College Planning Partners Blog

Like them our not, "social media" tools are becoming ever more important forces in today's society. Our colleague Peter "College Pete" Ratzan of College Funding Specialists in Westin, Florida recently shared an interesting note regarding its potential to influence your future college and career. It was so good, we shared it in every informational interview we conducted with job hungry college students this week:

In a recent Kaplan study, 80% of College Admissions Departments admitted that they checked their applicants' Facebook pages prior to granting acceptance. A similar report conducted by Harris Interactive found the same was true of potential employers: 35% of hiring managers had actually decided NOT to offer a job to a potential candidate based on content they found on that candidate's social networking site.

For the record, we've even heard (though can't confirm) that the Florida Bar is culling social media for potential red flags.

Social media use is clearly a two-way street: many students and job candidates are using Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to market themselves to prospective colleges or employers--with a large percentage even inviting admissions departments in for a peek.

Experts recommend that students be sure to check the privacy settings on their Facebook and other social media accounts to ensure they don't unwittingly sabotage a dream college or career opportunity.

So, if you're in graduate school or college, or a student planning to apply to college in the next few years, consider yourself forewarned and comport yourself accordingly. This Spring Break, be safe. Be smart. And have fun – but don't say or do anything you wouldn't want your mom to hear you say or see you do!

Thanks for sharing, Pete!