When classes are over for the summer, most students look forward to vacations, daytime TV, and sleeping in. Others cram in a few summer classes, work part-time jobs or take on summer internships. Whatever the agenda is for a student, summertime has a more laid back attitude then any other time of the year. Here are a few tips to keep up with social media this summer and still relax.

Discussions

One great aspect about the classroom is that it encourages in-depth discussions among students. When some students aren’t emerged in a classroom setting during the summer, they tend to miss out on the intellectual conversations that take place.  A great way to get the blood flowing to the brain this summer is to start a weekly discussion group.  Gather a group of close friends to meet once a week at a coffee house or a quiet location to discuss a social media topic chosen for the week.  Be sure to include people who have a variety of ideas so a strong mixture of diverse opinions is brought to the table.

Read, Read, Read

While relaxing by the pool this summer, why not make time to read the latest social media books? This is an excellent way to soak in information but relax at the same.  Also, you can join the Social Media Book Club, which chooses a new book each month to discuss. If books aren’t of interest this summer, remember you can always be current in the latest social media news and trends by reading a variety of tech blogs.

Mini Projects

If you would rather create then read this summer, then try conducting a mini project by using social media.  For example, start a summer blog about your travels or cover a local summer festival by using video, photography, or blogging. The possibilities are endless and projects can help you develop stronger social media skills. 

Don’t fall behind this summer by not keeping up with the latest social media trends.  Whether it’s discussing, reading, or creating, taking the initiative this summer to stay informed will make a difference once classes begin. 

[Creative Commons Image Credit: Virtual Photography Studio]