When someone mentions YouTube, many people jump straight into thinking about music videos, game commentary, or funny videos of cats. It’s sole purpose in one word: entertainment. However, this social platform has done much more than entertain. The video sharing site created a little over 10 years ago has grown exponentially. While there is a plethora of music videos, gaming commentaries, and cats, there are people who have made a life out of it. My favorite YoutTuber, Boogie2988, has made a living from it. With almost 3 million subscribers, Steve “Boogie” Williams
has been making videos since April 5, 2006. When you go to his channel, it shows a video of his “Draw My Life” which was a big movement for YouTubers to tell their stories while they drew it out. A very cool concept to see some very artistic and powerful stories. It truly showed how we are all different but we all face battles every day. This man also met his wife and proposed to her via YouTube. It is now his full time job and he consistently puts content out for us to view as we please.
YouTube also has tons of how to videos. Many of which have helped me do things I would never have been able to without someone showing me how to and explaining each step. I recently purchased a Ruger 10/22 long rifle. I figured I should learn how to take it apart before I shoot it. 
I went to YouTube and within seconds, found a video that shows how to take it apart and put it back together. Without it, I would have been lost trying to put my trigger assembly back together without any help. There are countless videos that show people how to build a computer, which I plan on doing in the future. Not to mention, all of these are free. So not only do you get to pause and start at your own time, but you do not have to pay or wait for specific times to access them. You are actually encouraged to watch these because the uploader can possibly get paid.
YouTube can also be used as an educator. I have learned how to fix headlights, install winches, and put lifts on Jeeps by watching videos. I have watched economics videos to help with homework. I have learned about video games (particularly WoW) via TradeChat, who also raises money for charity very often through her streaming. Lately, I have been watching a lot of Motor Trend videos about four wheeling in different terrains. 
Things that I find interesting are at the click of my mouse. I can watch videos of what life is like in Colorado or even another country.
This platform has given us all an opportunity to explore what the world can offer without us leaving our warm blankets. It truly is amazing how far we have come and this is a very good example of how technology is changing our lives. YouTube will continue to grow and help better our lives by means of entertaining, instructional, and educational videos.
Nate's Wise Words 