All I hear about in my classes is how social media is the worst, it hinders your communication skills, people skills, causes mental health issues, and so much more.

I couldn't disagree more.

Social media connects us to people all over the world that we otherwise wouldn't have met without our various social sites. Personally, I have met three of my closest friends through social media. If it wasn't for the unconventional way I met them, I would be in a very different place in my life. In fact, I probably wouldn't be here right now writing this article.

First of all, if it wasn't for social media I wouldn't have had one of the coolest jobs on the planet, I probably would have had a normal boring mall job. (Nothing against mall jobs, I have had several.) Social media has opened so many doors and opportunities for me. Because of my love for social media, I have found my passions in life and plan on pursuing them further in a career.

Social media is used for good. The quick spread of news across the globe helps keep us informed. Breaking news, weather reports, natural disaster updates, and so much more has become accessible and instantaneous. Remaining informed in politics and what is happening around us is so important. With social media, it's a great way to get younger generations listening and caring. Just look at how much the voter turnout for people 18 to 29 increased with this past midterm election.

Social media has made me more confident. Through social media and interacting with new people on a daily basis, I have been able to find my voice and my place. Instagram or Facebook is so much more than a place to brag about your newest purchase or other accomplishments in life. It is a place to scrapbook your successes and achievements throughout your life. My Instagram has become a virtual scrapbook for my memories as a teen and young adult. Just because I only post the good parts of my life, doesn't mean I'm being fake or bragging. It just means I want to focus on the good parts of my life and move on from the bad.

Social media can be a dark place, but don't let it be. Make social media a place to help you grow, learn, meet new people, open doors, and celebrate your life.