You see “link in bio” everywhere on social media. It’s a common way to share more information. When thinking about social media college application strategies, you might wonder if this applies. Can your Instagram or LinkedIn profile help your application? Yes, potentially – but only if used correctly to point towards your main portfolio or website, not replace it. Let’s explore how to use that link strategically.

Social Media and College Applications: A Careful Balance

First things first: colleges rarely ask for your social media profiles directly. Sending unsolicited links to your personal Instagram or TikTok is generally not a good idea (as we discussed with the “TikTok resume”). Admission officers are busy. They want the information they asked for in the format they requested.

However, your online presence matters. Admission officers might look you up online. What they find should ideally reinforce the positive image presented in your application. This is where using social media smartly comes in.

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Your Portfolio is Primary, Social Media is Secondary

Your main application materials (essays, grades, activities list) and your digital portfolio (if you have one) are the most important things. Your portfolio is where you showcase your best work, projects, and achievements in a professional way. Cirkled In can help you build and present a strong portfolio.

Social media profiles, even professional ones like LinkedIn, are supplementary. They can offer a slightly different view or point people towards your main portfolio, but they shouldn’t be the main event. Never assume an admission officer will click through multiple links starting from a social profile.

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Using the “Link in Bio” Strategically

The “link in bio” feature on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok, or the website section on LinkedIn, is valuable digital real estate. Here’s how to use it best for application purposes:

• Link to Your Portfolio/Website: The absolute best use is to link directly to your professional digital portfolio or personal website. This site should contain your curated projects, resume, and key accomplishments. Consider platforms like Cirkled In to create a compelling online portfolio.
• Use a Link Hub (Optional): If you have multiple important links (like a portfolio, a published article, and your LinkedIn), you can use a simple link hub service (like Linktree, Beacons, or even a simple page on your own website). Keep the options focused and professional. Avoid linking to purely personal social accounts here.
• Make it Obvious: Ensure the linked site is clearly yours and easy to navigate.

The goal is: if someone does happen to land on your social profile, the link should easily guide them to the professional information you want them to see.

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Choosing the Right Platforms (LinkedIn vs. Instagram, etc.)

• LinkedIn: This is the most professional platform. LinkedIn for students is becoming common. Use it to list experiences, skills, and connect with people in fields that interest you. The website link here should definitely go to your portfolio.
• Instagram/Twitter: If used, keep them professional or relevant to your field (e.g., an artist might use Instagram visually). The link in bio portfolio connection is key. Be very careful that the content is appropriate for a college reviewer to see. Consider a separate, professional account if needed.
• Facebook/TikTok/Snapchat: Generally, avoid linking these profiles or using them for application purposes. They are usually too personal.
• Cirkled In: Or you can play safe and smart. Create a Cirkled In portfolio and showcase your professional self holistically (and it’s free!)

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Keeping Your Social Profiles Professional

If you plan to use any social media link (especially LinkedIn or a professional Instagram), ensure the profile itself is clean:

• Appropriate Profile Picture & Bio: Clear photo, descriptive and mature bio.
• Review Your Content: Remove or archive any posts, photos, or videos that seem unprofessional, immature, or controversial. Think: would you want an admission officer seeing this?
• Privacy Settings: Understand your privacy settings, but remember that anything “public” can be found.
• Focus: If using a platform like Instagram professionally, keep the content focused on your skills, projects, or interests relevant to your application (e.g., art, photography, coding projects).

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What NOT to Do With Social Media Links

• Don’t put social media links directly in your essay or main application fields unless specifically asked.
• Don’t link to profiles filled with very personal, casual, or party pictures.
• Don’t expect admission officers to follow you or engage with your social media.
• Don’t use the “link in bio” to point only to other social media accounts. Guide them to a portfolio or website.

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Final Thought: Pointing the Way Professionally

Using the “link in bio” feature isn’t about making social media the center of your application. It’s about ensuring that if someone looks you up or follows a link from your resume or email signature, your professional social media profile directs them smoothly towards your curated, professional portfolio or website. Treat social media college application connections carefully – use them to point the way, not be the destination.

Need more tips on college applications, scholarships, or just how to survive this whole process? Cirkled In has your back—check out Cirkled In resources to help you through every step of your college journey!
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