“I Want to Be Honest, But Also Safe”:

Social Media Disclosures for International Students

Abstract

Recent federal visa policies requiring disclosure of social media identifiers have introduced new complexities for international students seeking entry into the United States. This case examines how digital surveillance practices intersect with institutional advising, academic freedom, and ethical responsibility. Through the lens of an international student concerned about prior political expression, the case invites readers to explore how institutions navigate ambiguity in visa adjudication while maintaining compliance integrity and student trust. The scenario highlights tensions between risk mitigation and self-censorship, institutional neutrality and advocacy, and federal authority and student dignity. Readers are encouraged to analyze the broader implications of surveillance culture for global mobility and the perceived openness of U.S. higher education.