We are a generation dependent upon technology and social networking. One conversation, one audience, one persona is not enough. Often, it seems that our fingers are surgically attached to the screens of our iPhones. Why enjoy someone’s company face-to-face when we can text, Snapchat, Facebook, Instagram or Vine the rest of our friends every second of every day?

It frustrates me when I walk into the Caf and see tables full of students glued to their phones rather than enjoying the company of those sitting around them. It frustrates me even more when I am one of those staring at the back of my friend’s phone because she is far too engrossed in her texting or stalking so-and-so on Instagram to converse with me over lunch.

Even walking around campus, I am amazed by the number of students walking to class buried in the world of social media on their portable device, not even bothering to acknowledge the presence of friends passing them on their way.

When did we become so anti-social in the real world in favor of becoming so social in the mass-media realm? Are we that worried about our social lives becoming extinct if we put away our phones for 45 minutes of real-world interaction? It’s as if we honestly believe something so major is going to happen that we aren’t going to hear about it, tweet about it and thus remain socially relevant because we happen to ignore our phone in lieu of spending physical quality time with a friend.

Here’s what I propose: Step away from the cell phone. Your life does not cease to exist when you decide to not post every trip to the beach, coffee break or study sesh on social media websites. Just because all of your Facebook friends don’t know where you are at every moment of the day does not mean your social life is nonexistent. Why not be present where you are at every moment? Be present in your interactions with classmates, be present at lunch with friends, be present on your way to class. Put your phone in your backpack and choose to interact with people you see on your way to the Library. Say hello, smile, ask how they are doing. If you really want to converse with someone, go to lunch with the person you would be texting during lunch rather than ignoring those you’ve chosen to go with instead.

Social media is a fantastic tool. It keeps us connected and allows us to keep up with those who may not be reachable otherwise. But we have the unique opportunity of going to a university that surrounds us with people who love and serve the same God we do. So take advantage of it! Check your phone at the door when you enter the Caf and be present with those who have taken time out of their day to eat with you. Trust me, the social strata will still be there when you get back.