Applicant #13: James Brandon

James Brandon is a 22-year-old from Waterloo.

James's video application:

James's current situation:

I am in my last term at the University of Waterloo. I currently live in Kitchener-Waterloo and I am proud to call Southwestern Ontario home.

James's blog post:

Young and Free – Connected

It is really important to stay connected. The Internet is a gathering place for sharing knowledge and information. It has introduced new means of communication; instead of buying a postage stamp, we press SHARE.

We press SHARE to connect with our friends, family, and acquaintances. We all love to share moments that make us laugh – hitting LIKE or commenting on friend’s posts makes us all feel supported. Social media is also a way to learn, and debate common issues. News travels very fast, and social media allows us to reach our friends ASAP.

The Internet is a hub of knowledge and information – the modern day Encyclopedia. Its brilliant how people with different hobbies, curiosities, and interests can connect to share, learn and connect.

However, one must be careful to remain safe on the Internet. In many ways, the virtual database we have created is the perfect place for people to gain access to our personal information and sometimes we can get into trouble with who we talk to online.

Being connected also means reaching beyond the virtual world. Being connected is being active in your community and being with the people that are important to you. Virtual conversations and POKES do not replace real human contact and conversation.

What does Young and Free have to do with social media? EVERYTHING! Connecting young people is what Young and Free is all about. Giving us a voice, and allowing us all to learn and grow together.

James