The past month or so has been booming with inappropriate pictures and videos placed on social media. Although I am not one to judge, there are many people who are, such as job recruiters, professors and fellow peers. Inappropriate posts could also affect the possibility of having relationships outside of the professional realm.

It saddens me to see students ruin their reputations by exposing themselves or being exposed doing inappropriate behavior, not suitable for the public eye. I realize that if it were me, I would be judged based on my actions rather than my character. You cannot expect to be put in the spotlight and not expect people to pass judgment based on what they see. Since this has been a reoccurring issue, I want to offer a solution to my peers. Know who is in your friend circle. Surround yourself with positive people and set limitations for yourself and your friends to ensure that you are never caught up in situations that will be detrimental to your reputation.

Everyone has done something or “things,” that they are not proud of. Some of us make mistakes and move forward without having to relive those moment. Unfortunately, modern technology allows people to be exploited and forced to relive a mistake for the rest of their lives.

Everyone has the right to make his or her own choices. What I have learned is that life “gives us with what we bargain for,” based on the situations we put ourselves in. College is not only about learning academically, but learning about people, and setting boundaries. Know your limits with friendships and your social life.

Question your character and evaluate the things that peek your interest.

 Everyone is responsible for the decisions they make, from the persons committing the action, to the people passing judgment.

With that being said,  as being a staff member for  The A&T Register, I can attest we have each learned how our words and actions can cause harm to others. Know that healing takes time. We should all make a conscious effort to uphold others and ourselves to a certain standard to ensure no one gets hurt in the moment of “part-time bliss.”

—Email Meagan at [email protected] follow her on Twitter  @theatregister

• Meagan Jordan