Making Friends With Facebook

By Erika Westbrook
Making friends has never been easier, with the help of a new online directory that is causing a frenzy with college students.

Facebook.com is an online directory that connects college and high school students through social networks at school.

The directory was launched by three Harvard students in February 2004. Since then millions of users have met other students who share common interests. It has also become an easy way for students to get help with academics.

Students set up an account by entering their school e-mail address and password. The next step is creating a profile, which includes uploading a picture, filling out information on interests, and providing contact information.

Users can add favorite music, books, movies, quotes, etc. Every entry is linked to search results, where users can see others who share the same interests. Users can also add and join groups, such as school organization groups, or “silly” groups such as “Corona Lovers.”

Facebook takes care to protect its users. Blocks are available for e-mails, and users have the right to chose who can and cannot view their profile or contact them. Offensive profiles or e-mails can be reported. Users are also encouraged to use caution when giving out any personal information.

Privacy policies can protect students from other users, but some students are getting in trouble for what they post online. Some colleges registered at Facebook have begun forming task forces to screen the directory in search of content that may go against college conduct policies.

According to the website, Facebook supports nearly 2000 colleges, including many community colleges. Nearly 85 percent of students at supported colleges have used the online directory. A total of 3.85 million members are currently registered, 92 percent of whom log on monthly.


Online update: Dan Williamson, WVUP's Director of Computer Services, says West Virginia University may in the future offer school e-mail addresses to students in the WVU system.