Social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube played a significant role in shaping trending content among college students during this period. TikTok, in particular, saw a meteoric rise in popularity, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Its short, engaging videos allowed users to express themselves creatively, share experiences, and connect with others. Instagram and Twitter also remained popular, serving as hubs for news, memes, and discussions on various topics.
Students became obsessed with virtual backgrounds (the "CEO Skyline," the "Hogwarts Library," or the "Garbage Fire"). Lighting rings and "professional pajamas" (nice top, sweats below) were trending purchases.
This specific subculture exploded on Tumblr and TikTok during 2020–2021.
