How does Social Media Affect the College Voter?

   SEPTEMBER 18, 2012- With Election Day inching near, social media is becoming a platform where college students not only interact with friends, but also use their voices to talk politics.

    Social media is changing the face of campaigns and is having a heavy impact on the upcoming election.

    A recent study by Social Vibe found that 94 percent of social media users of voting age observe political content, and 39 percent share it with about 130 of their friends.

    With about 150 million users of voting age on Facebook, social media could have an influence on this election.

    But Brian Sheridan, a member of the Communication Faculty at Mercyhurst University, says the influence isn't what you think.

    Sheridan says most college voters aren't swayed by posts on social media platforms, and they just use social media as a forum to get the word out.

    However, those who may not be completely familiar with campaigns sometimes use social media to get their information, which isn't always the best source.

    Although Sheridan says social media doesn't necessarily sway college age voters during the elections, it does have a drastic impact on sharing information.