PITCH

By Ghala Alyammahi, Digital Media Student

This article explores the ways in which the internet impacts our perception and identity, using the premise of two users looking at “the same” feed but receiving completely different “worlds.” It will discuss personalization, social feedback (likes, comments), and how constant comparison to others may relate to what people perceive as “normal,” “worthwhile,” or “true.”

Story Outline:

What is the problem with “personalized reality”? feeds, filters, and recommendation loops Identity as performance and the pressure to be consistent online the cost of being consistent: anxiety, self-censorship, and fear of change What a healthier digital identity can look like: boundaries, media literacy, and platform design

Potential interview subjects:

 • Digital Media students who have self-presented across multiple platforms

• A psychologist/counsellor discussing social comparison and how to develop identity

• A content creator discussing algorithmic pressure and audience expectations

Research possibilities:

• Academic articles related to perception, social identity, and algorithmic personalization

• Policies and reports related to platforms’ recommendation systems

• Survey of digital media students regarding “different selves” online compared to offline

Anticipated word count: 900 - 1,100 words.
Anticipated deadline: 7 days from assignment approval.

 Possible supporting materials:

 An AI-based artwork series (e.g., “glitch” or double-exposure), screenshot-style graphics demonstrating two feeds that could be generated from the same user’s input to the same platform, and a brief (micro) video demonstrating the visual effect of using filters.

(word count: 226)