The deadline for a potential TikTok ban is closing in. With an April 5 cutoff looming, speculation is swirling over whether a deal will be struck to keep the popular app available in U.S. app stores. Reports suggest negotiations are ongoing, but nothing has been finalized yet.
Students at Colorado Mesa University (CMU) have plenty to say about it. Many recall the brief ban in January and how it barely put a dent in their TikTok usage. Some even admit it had the opposite effect—making them use the app more.
Students Push Back Against the Ban
For most CMU students, the idea of losing access to TikTok isn’t just inconvenient—it’s personal. Many feel the app has become more than just a social media platform.
“I’d be against it… I think there’s plenty of content creators who have gotten to wherever they are because of TikTok. I think that would negatively affect them,” said Stephen Bruner, a CMU student.
That sentiment is widely shared. For some, the app serves as a source of income. Losing it would mean cutting off opportunities for young entrepreneurs, influencers, and digital marketers who have built entire careers on the platform.
More Than Just Entertainment
It’s not just about dancing videos and viral trends. Many students say TikTok has a practical purpose in their lives, from learning new skills to finding niche communities that align with their interests.
Julie Chaffee, a CMU student, explained how the app connects her with information that matters. “I like TikTok shop, and I like watching a bunch of different stuff like how to train my dog, or stuff for marching band, stuff for lacrosse, just a bunch of different things.”
Others use the app to discover products, find study tips, and engage with like-minded people. With its algorithm-based content delivery, TikTok provides a personalized experience that many students say they can’t easily replace.
A Political and Economic Debate
The push for a TikTok ban isn’t just about social media habits—it’s tied to larger political and economic concerns. Lawmakers pushing for the ban cite data security risks and concerns over foreign influence. TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, is based in China, which has fueled worries about potential data misuse.
While those in favor of the ban argue it’s necessary for national security, critics believe it could set a dangerous precedent for internet regulation. Some students say they aren’t convinced the move is truly about protecting users.
What Comes Next?
As the April 5 deadline approaches, all eyes are on Washington. If a deal is reached, TikTok could remain available in U.S. app stores. If not, the ban could become a reality, leaving millions without access overnight.
For now, CMU students continue scrolling, sharing, and posting, hoping that their favorite app isn’t taken away.
