College Admissions Trends: The Rise of Performative Decision-Making Among High School Seniors
A new trend in college admissions has emerged, where high school seniors are increasingly engaging in performative decision-making. This trend is characterized by elaborate 'bed parties' and social media announcements that emphasize the image and brand of the college choice over the actual fit for the student. The phenomenon has been partly fueled by the pandemic, which increased reliance on social media for sharing life milestones. This shift has led to students making decisions based on how their choice will be perceived by others, rather than focusing on the academic, social, and financial fit of the institution. 
