Abstract

This study examines the friendship patterns of final-year mathematics students at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) by analyzing their social media connections across different departments. Using graph theory and algorithms, the study models students and their friendships as a graph, which is then analyzed to identify patterns of departmental affiliations. The Breadth First Search (BFS) algorithm was employed to conduct the analysis. The findings reveal that final-year mathematics students had a higher frequency of friends in the actuarial science department than in other departments. This outcome can be attributed to the overlap between the courses and classes taken by students in both mathematics and actuarial science, fostering frequent interactions and stronger relationships. These interactions contribute to the creation of academic and social ties between students of these two disciplines. From a political economy perspective, this study highlights the importance of social networks in shaping academic and career opportunities. The closeness between mathematics and actuarial science students may facilitate the sharing of academic resources, including internship opportunities and study materials. Such exchanges are crucial for career advancement in fields like actuarial science, where practical experience is highly valued. However, the relatively limited social interactions with students from other departments may restrict the breadth of students’ academic and professional networks, potentially limiting their exposure to diverse perspectives and opportunities. This study underscores the implications of social media networks in higher education, where relationships between students within the same or related fields can impact not only their academic success but also their future professional networks. Expanding these networks beyond departmental boundaries may offer a wider array of opportunities, both socially and professionally, contributing to a more holistic academic experience.