How Snapchat is Changing College Culture: A Look at the Role of Hosts
Snapchat, since its inception, has been one of the most popular social media platforms across the globe. With its unique features like disappearing messages, filters, and stories, the app has managed to carve a niche for itself among the younger generation. In fact, it has now penetrated the college culture in a significant way. With Snapchat, students can now share their experiences, both academic and social, with their peers, and even across different colleges. However, with the app’s quick rise to popularity, the college culture has started to change in ways that have never been seen before.
The Role of Snapchat Hosts
Snapchat hosts are the ones who are responsible for creating and sharing college themed stories, both within their own friend circle and with the larger Snapchat community. They are the ones who capture the college experience by filming everything from the late-night parties to the early morning classes, from the sports games to the club meetings. The snaps are often shot in real-time, which allows the viewers to experience the college life as if they were there.
The role of Snapchat hosts is significant in shaping and influencing college culture. Through their snaps, they can create a sense of unity and community among the students, which can lead to a stronger sense of belonging and camaraderie. At the same time, the snaps can also influence the student’s behavior, as others often emulate what they see on social media. For example, if a host shares snaps of themselves participating in heavy drinking or drug use, it may normalize these behaviors among the audience, and encourage unsafe conduct.
Positive Effects of Snapchat on College Culture
Apart from the concerns surrounding Snapchat and the role of hosts, the app is also creating positive changes within the college culture. Students can now share their academic and social experiences with each other, regardless of geographical distance. This has created a sense of community, which is essential in an environment where students are often isolated from the outside world.
Also, Snapchat has allowed students to collaborate with each other in ways that were not possible before. They can now work together on projects and share ideas in real-time. Additionally, the app has enabled students to showcase their creativity, often by creating memes or videos that go viral on the platform. This can lead to recognition and fame for the students, which can be beneficial in their future careers.
Negative Effects of Snapchat on College Culture
While Snapchat has undoubtedly brought about positive changes to the college culture, there are also concerns regarding its negative impact. For one, the app can often encourage unhealthy competition among the students. They may feel the need to outdo each other, whether it’s in terms of parties, relationships, or academic achievements. In the long run, this can lead to high stress levels, burnout, and even depression.
Additionally, Snapchat can also lead to isolation and disconnection from the real world. Students may get so caught up in their virtual lives that they neglect their physical surroundings. This can affect their social skills and cause them to miss out on opportunities.
Conclusion
Snapchat is undoubtedly changing the college culture in various ways. While it has the potential to create positive changes by promoting community building, creativity, and collaboration, it can also lead to negative effects like unhealthy competition and isolation. What is essential is for the students and college communities to understand the role the app plays in shaping their experiences, and to approach it with a critical and responsible mindset. By doing so, they can ensure that Snapchat continues to have a positive impact on their lives.
