From altering dating to how we watch TV, social media has redefined how people do everyday activities.

The biggest aspect that has changed, however, is the high school experience.

High school students of the 21st century don’t have to handwrite assignments, use encyclopedias, or call their friends at home.

Now students can type their assignments anywhere, even submitting them online to some especially tech-savvy teachers, look up facts on Google, and instantly be in touch with their friends at the click of a button in and out of the classroom. With these differences come many positives and negatives.

“People used to actually talk to each other and call each other on the phone when I went to high school,” said Andrea Levin, a New Trier alum class of ‘68 and history teacher. “Even when I started at New Trier we were just starting to get computers. Seeing all of these changes over the years I think is great, but I don’t think people really talk to each other anymore. There is no more privacy.”

According to senior Bea Maloney, having enhanced communication opportunities during school is a positive.

“I think it’s nice because if you need something you know a friend will most likely text you back during the next passing period. I also use messaging for group projects, which is really useful,” said Maloney.

As a teacher and grandparent, Levin sees more of the negatives of social media.

“I have to reiterate to some of my classes to put their phones away and be respectful, especially during presentations,” said Levin. “As a parent and now grandparent, I worry about cyber bullying. It’s a terrible thing that neither I nor my children ever really experienced, but I worry about my grandchildren.”

Senior Jeffrey McHugh echoed Levin’s thoughts about the impact of social media on high school culture.

“It has changed the social dynamic of high school,” said McHugh. “Students are now more worried about what they are tagged in, who are they seen with, and what filter they should use. This process makes it easy for people to feel left out when they can log on Facebook or Instagram and see pictures being posted every weekend.”

People are now able to build an image that before was unimaginable. Profiles are compiled of what that person wants you to see, not what may be true.

“Now people can edit their image to make it whatever they want even if that isn’t truly who they are,” added Mchugh. “It is easy to misrepresent yourself or judge a person by their profile.”

On the contrary, it is much easier to get to know other students in a different way through social media. This is especially true in a big atmosphere such as New Trier, where it is impossible to get to know everyone in a more personal way. “People don’t just have to see each other in school, but they can share what they do out of school too,” said Maloney.

However, Maloney was willing to acknowledge that there are negative qualities relating to social media, especially involving self-esteem.

“I think it has both positive and negative consequences because I love being able to share pictures and things with my friends quickly, but it’s definitely a place where people constantly compare themselves to others,” she said.

Social media has changed the high school experience, academically, socially, and even physically. Past ideas about what high school life is like are quickly being altered as more and more social media infiltrates the halls.