A broadcast reporter reflects on the impact of growing up with social media algorithms. The reporter got on social media in their freshman year of high school, a time when they were already trying to figure out their identity. Initially, time spent online felt like self-discovery, with changes in style, presentation, and behavior. However, unique qualities were slowly lost in the process.

The algorithm's influence is noted, as it shifted from showing things the reporter might like to showing who they thought they should be. This experience is shared by millions of others, despite being told that their feeds are personalized.

Further details on this topic are available from the source, including the reporter's personal thoughts on the importance of not losing one's identity to an algorithm.