Everything is public online. Although you may not have believed it growing up, the saying is scarily accurate. Apps like Instagram, TikTok, and even LinkedIn allow users to share the best parts of their lives, but everyone has secrets, and they're easy to find online. 

Over the years, Howard students have taken to anonymous social media platforms to share their real selves.  In the past, controversial opinions, sneak disses, and honest thoughts about Howard were shared on the Instagram account @huspeakyomind– but today, they’re all concentrated on a new app, Fizz. 

Other schools have been affected by anonymous forums like YikYak, however nothing compares to how Howard students use Fizz. It’s the first app nervous freshmen visit during their first week on campus. It’s supposed to give incoming students an idea of what Howard is really like– outside of the viral fit checks and “Howard Effect” trends on Tikok. Instead, students have changed the meaning of Fizz by posting less about their experiences and opinions, and more about hooking up and spreading gossip. 

“I feel like the fact that it’s anonymous is dangerous– because folks really say anything… and there’s zero censorship,” said freshman Minnesota Cook. 

Minnesota initially joined fizz at the beginning of the year because she wanted to know what was going on on campus. Instead, she was met with posts calling out other students for their fashion choices, and desperate comments asking for sexual favors in the dorms. 

It has an impact on Howard students' social lives too. Fizz can easily create campus celebrities and campus villains, and no one is safe. If you’re not careful, you could end up on Fizz, too.

Another Freshman, Sanai Phillips, had an immediate reaction when asked about ‘Fizz’ exclaiming, “Nah, people say anything on there, also they’re shady as f*ck. Like, they’re actually shady as f*ck.  Like, they’re always gossiping.” 

Although It’s easy to get caught up in the online world of Fizz, it's important to remember that none of it’s real. It's not the place for information, nor is it the place to find friends. If you’re looking for genuine connections, try going outside and meeting new people or checking campus events on Engage.

For better or worse, Fizz is a rite of passage for every Howard freshman. Whether you’re posting on it everyday or casually scrolling, the app is a vital part of the Howard experience. Not because any of it’s true, but because it’s entertaining.