Pretending I Got Into Harvard: TikTok Trend Explained
Are you intrigued by the viral “Pretending I Got Into Harvard” TikTok trend? This comedic phenomenon has swept across For You pages on the popular video-sharing platform, creatively parodying the emotional reactions typically associated with college acceptance announcements. With its humorous twists, the trend not only entertains but also invites viewers to reflect on the often-overblown excitement surrounding such pivotal moments. But what really sparked this trend, and how has it evolved into a cultural touchstone on TikTok?
Let’s dive into the details: discover how this engaging trend originated, explore its most memorable viral moments, and understand why it has resonated so deeply with TikTok users everywhere.
Unpacking the ‘Pretending I Got Into Harvard’ Trend on TikTok
The “Pretending I Got Into Harvard” trend has captivated a wide audience on TikTok by infusing humor into the traditionally emotional context of college acceptance videos. Participants create over-the-top portrayals of their reactions upon receiving fictitious acceptance letters from Harvard, channeling the high-stakes emotions typically seen during real acceptance announcements. This trend cleverly satirizes the intense, dramatic displays that accompany significant academic milestones, showcasing the lighter side of such experiences.
This amusing trend began its rise to fame in December 2024, ignited by TikTok user @_angelomarasigan, who uploaded a video titled “Pretending I got into Harvard because we’re bored.” This initial post quickly garnered over 33 million views, effectively setting the stage for the trend’s widespread popularity. Following Angelo’s lead, countless creators began sharing their own versions, resulting in a flood of exaggerated comedic skits that resonated with viewers.
Take a look at the viral video shared by Angelo:
Many of these entertaining videos feature popular mashups, such as “Latch” by Sam Smith and “7 Years” by Lukas Graham, enhancing TikTok’s tradition of combining emotional visuals with evocative soundtracks. The trend has also taken a delightful twist, with users incorporating pets—especially dogs—into their comedic portrayals, adding an extra layer of charm and creativity.
For instance, a delightful video by @aubreygavelloo showcases a 13-year-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel getting “accepted” into Harvard. In another amusing clip, renowned creator @mmmjoemele highlights a chicken as a humorous participant in the trend. These pet-centric parodies have quickly gained traction, racking up millions of views and delighting audiences across the platform.
This cultural phenomenon draws from a long-standing tradition of sharing heartfelt college acceptance reactions online, a trend that has been prevalent since the mid-2010s. What once began as genuine displays of joy has now transitioned into a playful source of parody on TikTok, with Harvard’s prestigious reputation making it a prime target for humor and satire.
As the “Pretending I Got Into Harvard” trend continues to evolve, it underscores TikTok’s significant role in reshaping cultural narratives through the lens of satire. By poking fun at the seriousness often associated with academic achievements, this trend encourages users to embrace humor in life’s significant moments, fostering a sense of shared enjoyment and community among TikTok users.
