When someone mentions YouTube, what comes to mind? Common responses include vlogs, music, and viral videos. The average person wouldn’t think of online video as an alternative to television, but the market for online TV shows – known as webseries – is rapidly growing to fill every possible niche.

As a self-proclaimed internet junkie, I was quick to investigate the new phenomenon. While I found some disappointing series, several I found extraordinarily entertaining.

Series fall into a diverse number of categories. In terms of educational shows, “Crash Course” by John and Hank Green provides clear and quick information on a variety of topics. It’s perfect for a speedy overview or last-minute cramming. The “Bravest Warriors” series by Pendleton Ward, creator of “Adventure Time,” provides lighthearted animated adventures aimed at a teenage audience.

“But what about emotions? Suspense?” you cry. “I bet the internet can’t give me the heartbreaking drama of shows like ‘Pretty Little Liars’ and ‘Game of Thrones!’”

Never fear, dear reader! Once again, the Internet delivers.

“Carmilla,” a webseries by Jordan Hall and Ellen Simpson, is a modern adaptation of the 1871 novella of the same name. Laura, a journalism student, discovers that her roommate has gone missing. The school’s refusal to investigate is strange enough, but her eccentric new roommate Carmilla is even stranger.

This series is groundbreaking in many respects. First, it’s directly sponsored by Kotex tampons. The show’s success is driving more companies to support independent filmmakers. Webseries have a self-sustaining nature (make good content, get more views, make more money, make better content, and so on) that’s especially emphasized by “Carmilla.” The first season had one camera, one location and few actors. However, because of its overwhelming success, the second season has a much larger budget and more options available.

Finally, my favorite aspect of “Carmilla” is its forward-thinking social standpoints. It’s one of the most feminist shows I’ve seen in recent years, with Laura’s call to action being “We need to girl the hell up!” Additionally, the show makes strides in terms of LGBT representation, with two same-sex relationships at the center of the show.

Overall, every member of the Algonquin community can find something to suit their interests. I challenge you to step out of your Netflix comfort zone, explore online, find new passions, and support independent artists.