Final Presentation

 

FINAL POST

I don’t think technology is bad—in fact, I’d argue the opposite. As a young woman trying to navigate school, work, friendships, and the future, I rely on technology every day. The internet has helped me research, write, learn, apply for jobs, and even connect with mentors I wouldn’t have met otherwise. My phone is like my second brain. I honestly can’t imagine life without it.

There are times when I feel completely empowered by technology like when I use it to express myself, find opportunities, or stay connected with people I care about. But there are other times when it leaves me feeling drained. Social media especially can be overwhelming. It’s where I catch up with friends and follow creators who inspire me, but it’s also where I start comparing myself to others, even though I know what I’m seeing isn’t always real. It’s hard not to let that mess with your self-esteem.

Technology also plays a complicated role in my relationships. It helps me stay in touch with people who live far away, and it’s great for sharing memories, planning events, and checking in. But I’ve also noticed how often it distracts from face-to-face interactions. I’ve been at dinners or get-togethers where everyone is physically present but mentally somewhere else, buried in their phones. That kind of disconnection is something I think we’ve all felt at one point or another.

The Downside

Beyond just me, I worry about how technology is shaping our culture. Before social media, people didn’t talk about things like cyberbullying, ghosting, or revenge porn, now those are everyday realities. Mental health issues, especially among teens and young adults, seem to be rising alongside our time spent online. I don’t think that’s a coincidence. It feels like we’re constantly connected, but somehow lonelier than ever.

I also think about how I show up online. I’ve Googled myself, and thankfully nothing embarrassing came up, but it was a reminder of how permanent everything we post really is. It made me rethink how I use social media and what kind of impression I’m giving to the outside world. I want to be authentic, but I also want to be responsible—especially knowing that future employers, professors, or even strangers might be looking.

So, is my relationship with technology healthy? Honestly, it’s a work in progress. I’m learning to set boundaries, to put my phone down more often, and to be more intentional about how I spend my time online. 

I think technology can be an incredible tool but it’s up to us to decide how we use it. It’s not just about convenience or entertainment anymore; it’s about our mental health, our relationships, and even the kind of society we want to create. That’s a lot of responsibility but it’s also a chance to make better choices, for ourselves and for each other.