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Coming out online has its benefits. Making your announcement to so many people at once can be liberating, and you don’t have to go through the hassle of having the same conversation a dozen times. But I’m afraid using social networking sites this way is no replacement for direct, in-person conversations. In your case, I think it’s especially unwise because you say you’re having trouble speaking up offline about your sexuality. The first step in any successful coming out is getting comfortable enough to talk about it. Then, tell your closest friends, parents, siblings, and others you care about—in person. After that, it’s fine to note on your profile that you’re interested “in men” or “in women” and see where that leads you.

One final note: You mention that you’re a college senior, so presumably you’ll be seeking a job upon graduation. Remember that anything you post on a social networking site is forever. So it’s in your interest to think carefully about who else may have access to whatever information you post—today and down the road.

 

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