Instead of presenting an over-the-top representation of myself, I decided to highlight what is already true. Being a Division I athlete means being disciplined, sacrificing, and having the mental toughness to succeed. My pictures and posts all represent the same thing: success at this level is not given, but earned.
I made sure to maintain a strong and assertive tone. Confidence is crucial in women’s basketball, particularly in a sports environment where female players tend to be underappreciated. Through the use of captions that highlight strength, hard work, and resilience, I was able to convey not only that I am a part of college sports, but that I am also completely dedicated to playing at the collegiate level.
Consistency is also crucial in establishing this image. The hashtags, tone, and images all relate to discipline and hard work. Practice photos illustrate what is happening behind the scenes. Game-day posts illustrate what is happening when the lights are on. Extra work posts illustrate strength and toughness. Even posts with my head coach illustrate the complete image of a student-athlete.
This assignment has also opened my eyes to how deliberate social media can be. Each post is a part of a personal brand. As an athlete at the Division I level, this is important for recruitment, networking, NIL, and professional purposes down the road. My persona shows that I am dependable, hardworking, and a leader without having to state that directly.
In the end, my Instagram presence is an extension of who I am: a competitor, a hard worker, and a proud representative of women’s basketball at the Division I level. My persona is not something that is in addition to who I am; it is an extension of it.
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