Scrolling through social media, it’s easy to feel like everyone else has it all together. The perfectly curated photos, the exciting weekend adventures, the smiling group selfies—it all paints a picture of a life without struggles. But here’s the truth: social media is just a highlight reel, not an in-depth view of someone’s real life.
College is an incredible season, full of new experiences, friendships, and opportunities for growth. But if you spend more time behind a screen than engaging with the world around you, you might miss out on the best parts of it. Social media has its place—it helps you stay connected, share moments, and even find community—but it should never replace real-life experiences.
It’s important to remind yourself that what you see online is a filtered version of reality. The picture-perfect posts rarely show the hard days, the moments of loneliness, or the struggles behind the smiles. Instead of comparing your life to someone’s highlight reel, invest in the moments happening right in front of you.
Put the phone down and be present. Go to that campus event, sign up for a retreat, grab coffee with a friend, and have real conversations. College is a time to make memories that don’t require a filter. Enjoy it fully, beyond the screen, and you’ll find that the best moments are the ones you truly experience, not just the ones you post.
