Social networks are putting more focus towards university students, particularly Facebook with its recently launched “Universities” feature.
The new feature provides students and campus organizations with tips on how to best use its site to announce events, spread information and boost school spirit.
“I have not heard of this new page, but I would use it to promote events off campus, too, since this is a commuter school,” broadcast journalism senior Michael Carrell said. “I would like to see more of a unity on campus.”
The new Facebook page is designed to show students tools for establishing an online interactive presence with their campus’ community.
When a student clicks the “Like” option to a specific site, they will be informed of all updates of their site in their news feed, as well as the news feeds of their friends on Facebook.
Public relations senior Chasity Mims said she would take advantage of the page “if it kept popping up on her newsfeed.”
The “Community” tab suggests ways for college dorms, clubs, groups and classes to use Facebook to engage people in activities and discussions and to spread information by updating it regularly.
“Technology is in,” communications junior Jennifer Solice said. “You can connect with people, like … ‘Oh are you a fan of that Page on Facebook? Me, too.’”
The “Sports” tab shares tips on making college sports more interactive by updating fans and making sure students know details about their teams by posting athletic schedules and ticket information, sharing sports news and player bios. There is also a video feature that gives students facts and allows fans to comment on the Live Stream.
In order to attract more students and celebrate the launch, Facebook has a tab built by Context Optional labeled “Deals,” where retailers extend exclusive deals and discounts for college students.
Mims said she is taking advantage of the deals that are appealing to her, like a ShoeDazzle discount that is currently offering.
Many UH students said they were pleased with the new page found at www.facebook.com/Universities.
Some even suggest that social networking sites can be used for more than just social events, and the launch of this new page can do just that, allowing college groups to reach students in a popular yet professional way.
“If you want things to happen, you need to advertise it and plan it, which students can achieve through Facebook,” journalism senior Josh Siegel said.
