We all remember high school, whether we want to or not. You most likely remember your social experience over any ounce of academia you may have temporarily absorbed in preparation for a midterm exam. Back then, your friends helped to determine your social status and what clique you may (or may not) have belonged to. Social media is like your high school classmate. Today, we are using social media for just about anything and everything. Just like your range of classmates, there are countless social media networks that cater to different needs, interests and goals. Social media outlets may benefit some more than others; not everyone is looking for the same quality in a platform. Likewise, cliques are formed because people have different interests and therefore fit in with others who have similar qualities and passions. Which social medium you would be friends with in high school if social media were your classmate?
Do you remember that smart but super quiet kid who always sat in the first row? That was Thomas Twitter, the wise but reserved honors student. Thomas may not say much (140 characters to be exact), but when he does you know it's time to listen. He pays close attention to what's going on but only has a few one-liners every day. Teachers love Thomas because he doesn't act up in class and always makes the honor roll.
Thomas could always be found hanging out with his pal, Lawrence LinkedIn, the business-oriented student. Lawrence acted like he was the CEO of a Fortune 500 company even though he was only in high school. A member of the debate team, captain of the Mathletes, and an entrepreneur at the ripe age of seven, Lawrence graduated high school a year early so he could start his own business. His favorite hobby is networking with seasoned professionals, and he isn't afraid to lead discussions in his favorite groups.
Unlike Lawrence, Faye Facebook was the socialite of the school. She was constantly "in the loop" by tagging, posting, updating and connecting with friends. Faye was always getting scolded by her teachers for not paying attention in class! A social networker both in and out of the classroom, Faye frequented parties often and had over 1,000 friends! One of Faye's closest friends was...
Dan Drinkify, the party guy! Whenever there was a party, there he was. Dan worked as a bartender on the weekends when he wasn't out partying with Faye and her friends. He loved the music scene and mixing drinks together to come up with various concoctions. If you were in a certain mood, or listening to a certain song, he had the ability to tell you what drink you were craving before you even realized it! Dan was just good like that.
Known as the school's biggest photography junkie, Ian Instagram lived and breathed for capturing the most inspiring images. An alternative soul, Ian was never seen without his beloved SLR. He loved to take photos with special effects; whether black and white photos or sepia, Ian had a knack for making the simplest object or scene look like it came straight out of a postcard.
Finally, Gerard Google+ is the last classmate to make the cut. Gerard was the "floater" who didn't have a set clique that he belonged to, but rather befriended everyone. Gerard's winning personality and spirit helped to involve him with several different circles. His fresh perspective and attitude helped make him accepted by all.
There are many social media outlets out there; at least one of them is for you. Whether you can relate your high school self to Faye Facebook or Lawrence LinkedIn, social media caters to almost every interest and passion out there. Other social media classmates who receive honorable mentions are:
Stan StumbleUpon, Penny Pinterest, Tammy Tumblr, and Martin Meetup.
Now, who will sign my yearbook?
Image: Students/Shutterstock