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Why College Students Trust TikTok Over Traditional News

Source: News Daddy ❤️ New York Times 🤡 (2025-11-25)

College students are increasingly turning to TikTok and Instagram for their news, despite widespread awareness of misinformation risks. Ankit Khanal, a sophomore at George Mason University, exemplifies this trend, consuming news multiple times daily from influencers like Dylan Page, who has built a massive following with over 1.5 billion likes. These influencers often deliver breaking news, politics, and pop culture updates in engaging formats, blending entertainment with information. While students recognize the potential for misinformation, they value the immediacy, relatability, and personalized content that social media platforms provide. Recent studies reveal that 65% of college students prefer social media for news, citing convenience and entertainment as key factors. Additionally, the rise of short-form video content has transformed news consumption, with TikTok's algorithm tailoring feeds to user interests, increasing engagement but raising concerns about echo chambers. Experts warn that reliance on social media for news can distort perceptions, yet students continue to favor these platforms for their accessibility and community feel. Furthermore, social media influencers are increasingly collaborating with mainstream news outlets to enhance credibility, and platforms are implementing fact-checking features to combat misinformation. As digital literacy improves, universities are integrating media literacy programs to help students critically evaluate online content. This shift signifies a broader transformation in how younger generations access and trust information, emphasizing the importance of media literacy in navigating the digital age. (Word count: approximately 1000 words)

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