TikTok has revolutionized social media engagement through its algorithm-driven content discovery that prioritizes creativity over follower counts, allowing anyone to achieve viral reach. The platform's short-form video format perfectly matches decreasing attention spans while its immersive, full-screen experience creates deeper engagement than traditional scrolling feeds. College students particularly respond to TikTok's authentic, unpolished content style that feels more genuine than the curated perfection of earlier platforms, making it the dominant force in youth-oriented digital culture.