How I Represent Myself
Social Media
Social media is the most effective way for my peers and I to represent ourselves on the web. Social media allows their users to craft a certain image or brand that reprsesents that user. For example, I like to include pictures of myself and my friends on my instagram to show others that I’m a people person and I like to surround myself with good energy. Another person, may focus on only including aesthetic nature pictures to show off their photography hobby. It depends on the person and what they want people to think of them. Although what a person chooses to show on social media, may not be an accurate depiction of the user. Yanet Vanegas talks in Psychology Today about the Teen Identity Crisis and what it looks like to find authenticity in a digital world. People may spend their time crafting an image of a happy person with no problems when they are struggling. It is crucial for users, especially teens, to not compare themselves to others on social media because it is hard to tell what is authentic and what has been meticulously crafted. I am even guilty of sometimes trying to convince people that my life is better than others. However, I like to think that the version of myself online is mostly authentic.
Why I chose “iConi”
I chose the name iConi because it references the Nickelodeon show iCarly. iCarly was one of the many forms of media I consumed when I was younger. I was very into Barbie, Princesses, Disney Channel, and Nickelodeon. I like to acknowledge my childhood interests because they shaped who I am today. Barbie dolls got me into storytelling, princesses got me into fashion, and shows like iCarly interested me in social media. So, when presented with the option to name my website, I wanted to once again honor the little girl who dreamed about having her own brand and website.
Who I Want to be on the Web
Positivity is Key
On the web, I want to be a positive person. Because there is so much negativity and trolling on the web, it can be taxing to be online. When people talk about the internet, everyone quickly points out the negatives. I hope that whenever and whatever I post online, it doesn’t add to the massive amount of hate and disinformation. I know I am not the only person working on adding more positivity to the internet. Still, I hope that my contribution, as well as others, makes the web a better place to be.
