Reflection Blog: Bridging Digital Worlds — My Two Realities

 This week’s readings brought up so many feelings for me—especially the Pew Research Center report that compared social media use in developed and developing countries. It was like seeing my own life split in two. On one side, I’m a student in the U.S., with fast Wi-Fi, multiple devices, and endless digital tools. On the other hand, I think of home, where a single smartphone serves a whole family, and where Facebook might be someone’s first experience with the internet.

The contrast is striking. In Nepal, we don’t think of social media as optional—it’s essential. It connects migrant parents to their children, helps teachers find learning resources, and allows local shopkeepers to advertise without a budget. It’s amazing what people do with limited resources. And yet, I also see how language and infrastructure still create invisible walls. Platforms are mostly in English. Data is expensive. And people often feel left behind, even when they’re technically online.

What I’m learning is that access doesn’t always mean equity. Just because someone is on social media doesn’t mean they’re part of the global conversation. As a student who’s lived both realities, I’m starting to realize my role might be to build bridges to share tools, raise awareness, and keep reminding myself that digital connection is not the same for everyone.

This week reminded me that technology isn’t neutral; it reflects the systems we build and the voices we prioritize. I’m grateful for the reminder, and even more committed to doing my part.