Pre-Health Prep Series: Reviewing Social Media & Internet Search Results

We've all been told to be careful of the things that we post to social media outlets like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, but not all of us are great about taking that advice. As you prepare for applying to professional programs in the coming months, it is important that you take a little time to see yourself in the way that others, particularly admissions committees, may see you.

Why would admissions committees care about my social media presence?
While not all professional programs will take the time to look you up, some will...and those that do are looking for any public commentary, discourse, or images that can tell them more about your opinions, biases, social behaviors, and decision-making.

What else are committees looking for when they search for me online?
Sometimes, committees will use online resources to verify or follow-up on things that were stated in your personal essay or on your interview. Whatever they find can be considered during the application process as a type of informal background check.

Okay, so should I just take down everything about myself that I can find?
Absolutely not. If you have done some really great things that make you a strong candidate, you want those kinds of things to be readily accessible to anyone who looks you up online. Never pass on an opportunity to showcase your volunteering, accolades, or campus involvement through articles or other news media features that paint you in a positive light. You can also use more professional social media sites, such as LinkedIn, to highlight your achievements. If you use non-professional social media, be sure to use privacy settings to limit what the general public has access to...don't ever be caught doing anything that is illegal, shows poor judgement, or is highly controversial as that can hurt your candidacy.

What should I do to find out what others are seeing?
Do web searches of your name and see what you find. It is helpful to know what others are seeing so that you can speak to anything that might come up in an interview. If there are things that really worry you, look into having them removed or limiting visibility. Ultimately, being prepared for a conversation, just in case, is a good way to be.

What are some things I can do to maintain a good online presence/image?

• Set personal, social accounts to private and make sure that you can approve of all requests, tags, & check-ins.
• Keep images, statuses, & comments clean.
• Delete anything that you think could be misconstrued by someone who might see it.
• Always sign out of public or shared devices and never share your passwords.
• Periodically do a web search of yourself or ask others to search you and give you feedback.
• Don't be afraid to do a little "professional bragging". Allow media sources to interview you or write up articles about you when you do interesting projects or win awards. If you have a blog or other forum, write about your achievements and the things that interest you. Be the face of things that you are passionate about. It is uncomfortable for many of us to tout our accomplishments, but if you aren't doing it, no one else is going to do it for you. (*Disclaimer* This is not a license to be arrogant...just a push for you to showcase how you would be a great addition to a professional program.)