Twitter + Gophers = Awesome

While I was picking up some overpriced textbooks this week for my final semester here at the University of Minnesota I was surprised and a little proud to see this book on the shelves next to more traditional Journalism books. I'm too old to be taking the intro to public relations class, but those freshman and sophomores are a lucky bunch. Their professor is having the students read Julio Ojeda-Zapata's new book, Twitter Means Business. Awesome, right?

Why is this great?
From experience, I know that University courses are often times WAY behind in many of the current business, advertising and public relations activities. Twitter also hasn't really had the impact on college students as Facebook has (yet) and this is a good way for them to start using it and have a head start.

What does it mean?
Murphy Hall is already filled with great people, but their use of these new books and ideas in the curriculum gives Gopher students better insights into the world outside of lectures and blue books. While Twitter isn't the sole platform for businesses to connect with their consumers, it's simplicity and ease of use is perfect for setting up examples and case studies.

Who wins?
The University, the professors, the book authors, students and more importantly, their future employers win big time. Sure it's great to learn the founding principles of strategic communication, but all too often we're given out-dated examples that drive us to completing the Daily Sudoku rather than being inspired to participate. With updated courses and materials, everyone gains from the conversations and involvement with real-time business and marketing examples.