It's our number one form of communication. It's the one thing we cannot seem to escape. 

Social media essentially runs our lives in more ways than any of us know. We have grown up as a fearless generation; there is not a lot of precaution used when posting opinionated statuses or risky images on the Internet. At our age we tend to think we are invincible, however, that is not the case.

While in college, pictures are posted without a second thought. Objects in the background that we tend to ignore do not always slip by those who are seeking to hire. Applying for jobs is a major part of college; this is the first step we take toward the rest of our lives. Rarely does it cross our mind that one small blurb on social media could end our chances of succeeding in our chosen career path.

Snapchats, Instagrams, Tweets and Facebook posts can all be recovered. Once you put something on the Internet, it stays. That fact does not resonate with everyone. Some people choose to ignore it, not wishing to accept the truth that is our reality. Even deleted postings are stored on the web; do not be so naïve as to think employers cannot get ahold of what you post.

Social media has also contributed to our generation’s idea that we should be given certain positions, or that we need to be handed the tools to succeed directly. Other generations worked their way from the bottom to the top to become prosperous; where does our sense of entitlement stem from? The Internet and every search-engine imaginable is right at our fingertips, but just because you can Google a process to know how it is done, does not mean you are an expert in that area.

There are an incredible amount of resources available to people through the world of social media. In the age of technology that we live in, it is crucial to be aware of what is being posted or said on all forms of Internet communication. One image, one post, one mistake can cost you your future. Is it worth it?