A recent Kaplan study revealed that not only are college admissions offices checking out applicants’ Facebook and Twitter pages, but 35 percent of the time, that search has a negative impact on the potential student.

The MU Admissions Office said it doesn’t Google applicants, but that doesn’t mean MU students are in the clear.

Other entities on campus, like the Department of Residential Life and most Greek Life chapters, are known for keeping an eye on their employees’ or members’ social media presences. Beyond that, it’s becoming the norm for employers to look up applicants, whether they’re applying to work at a local restaurant or to get a coveted internship.

It isn’t news that photos of drinking, smoking, etc. don’t reflect favorably on students. What is new is the effect it could have if seen by an employer: For some, it could be a deal breaker. If you don’t want to take down some photos, posts or tweets, make them private. Google yourself periodically and make sure the impression you make is one you’re proud of.

In this 21st-century job market, its crucial students proactively take control of their online personas. If we do, it’s plausible a Google search could work in our favor, instead of condemning 35 percent of us.