By: JONATHAN WARREN
Facebook is undoubtedly the social development of our generation. In just eight years, the site has gone from a school project to a worldwide phenomenon. Encouraging a level of openness and accessibility among users, it has simplified the process of making friends to a click of the mouse. It is extraordinary that millions of people can be linked by a single website. Now after meeting someone for the first time, one can discover that person’s interests, friends, family, and relationship status. Facebook has created a level of honesty, and is sometimes brutally honest.
The seemingly inescapable social issues that plague teens today have seeped into social networking sites. In the double page spread, we cover some of these online concerns. Cyber bullying, for example, is leading people to embarrassment and depression. Also on these sites, incriminating photos can be posted of users without their consent, which can lead to bullying, but may also keep one from college acceptance or getting a job.
Colleges and employers are increasingly using Facebook as a tool to get a true image of applicants, a trend that students especially should note. For those that struggle with these problems, we have also given tips for deleting a Facebook account, a surprisingly difficult process.
As autumn arrives, we have provided stories to help combat the season’s snuffles. In features, we debunk common myths about getting sick. For example, it is impossible to catch a cold from standing out in the rain. Also, This issue’s Op Ed discusses whether students should come to school sick.
With fall comes important events in sports such as the annual Edgewater rivalry game, which is featured in the Sports section. November also marks the beginning of the Orlando Magic’s highly anticipated season. In this issue, we break down our own predictions for the Magic.
Whether it is a social revolution or a new season, change is constant on campus. It is important to accept and move with these changes, but also to be wary. Change can be refreshing, but some can also be hazardous. The trouble lies in telling the difference.