25 Predictions for the University of the Future

By Emily Thomas

Along with the rest of the world, the landscape of higher education is changing rapidly. Open source courses, new technology systems, digital collections in libraries, and social media are influencing how we receive and process our information. Students and faculty members communicate via different platforms than they used to, and an increasingly globalized society contributes to more competition and more access to valuable learning resources. Here are 25 predictions for how the university of the future will operate.

Technology and Innovation

Technology is one of the largest factors instigating the evolution of universities and higher education. Learn how by checking out this list.

1. There will be more of an emphasis on distance learning: Going to college online has become a more accepted and desirable alternative to traditional higher education, and as distinguished universities like University of Massachusetts and Notre Dame offer online education options, others will continue to follow.
2. Traditional universities will be compelled to pursue open networks: Open education is so far a useful supplement to formal learning, but as students become used to finding courses and learning resources online for free, organized universities will need to offer some sort of online space for open collaboration, at the very least.
3. Technology innovation will be a priority: Technology will be one of the main driving forces behind the universities of the future, and all colleges will need to make technology innovation a priority in the classroom, libraries, career guidance offices, dorm rooms, social programs, and beyond.
4. Students will take a mix of online classes and on-campus courses: In an effort to find affordable education, students may opt for more flexible, personalized education plans instead of the four-year track that requires them to live on campus. They may take courses in a classroom one semester, and then enroll in online courses the next. Eventually, more campus-based universities may offer full programs that can be completed by taking online courses and classroom courses.
5. Focus will be on career-applicable skills and experiential learning: While many prominent universities continue to uphold the tradition of a liberal arts, humanities-based education, there will most likely be a general shift over towards major-focused study that encourages students to practice skills in labs and other environments that simulate the real world.
6. More collaboration: Though some students may start choosing distance education or web-based communication over the campus lifestyle, there will be more collaboration — mostly through technology — among students around the world and at different universities who are driven to solve problems in the real world before they even graduate. Faculty members, lecturers, researchers and other experts will also be able to communicate with each other more easily via the Internet and technology solutions.
7. Open communication between students and teachers: Through social networks like Twitter and Facebook, students and faculty members are able to communicate on a range of subjects without having to honor the restrictions of traditional office hours. This constant discussion will only grow in the future.
8. Increased interaction on campus: In order to keep up with the digital, animated-oriented learning styles of students who have grown up with the Internet, campuses will have to promote a more interactive, engaging learning environment.
9. Libraries will continue to become more tech-focused: Many college libraries and research libraries have set forth innovative technology systems, digital collections and pledges to modernize the way students and faculty receive information. New web-based tools, open source technology and data systems will continue to take over.
10. Learning resources will shift online: In the future, students may not have to pay hundreds of dollars per text book. There are already open source texts, and faculty members may be able to create their own online learning resources and collections to which they can direct students.
11. There will be an increase in the variety of educational resources and materials: Open courseware and private learning resources are already available through iTunes and school websites, and as technology continues to advance, so will the media used to stream education.
12. There will be an even greater focus on research universities: As technology is used to combat all kinds of social, economic, and environmental crises, there will be an even greater pressure put on funding and supporting research universities. This push will create new jobs and allow students and faculty members more opportunity for hands-on learning.
13. Faculty members in all fields will need to become "techies": In order to keep up with their students and the demands of a technologically advanced, globally connected higher education system, faculty members will need to be able to create their own websites, use social media, find online resources for teaching, and collaborate with other educators through technology.

Student Body and Enrollment

University enrollment will change due to increases in minority students and other factors.

14. More students in school: Because the Internet and technology systems have made it easier for students to pay for college and access higher education learning resources, more students will be able to receive a university education.
15. More minority students will enroll in college: Just as there will be an increase in enrollment due to more accessible education resources, there will be an increase in the number of minority students who are able to go to college.
16. More independent student body: The importance of collaboration will continue to grow, but as web-based learning opportunities and tools open up, students will be less dependent on the campus community for education and career training.
17. Student projects will be acknowledged and encouraged: Just as research programs are pushed, students may be able to have more time and support to pursue their own projects, fueling innovation in all business, technical, professional and creative industries.

Global and Economic Issues

Find out how the new global economy will impact the university of the future.

18. Increase in global networks and contacts: Because students have more access to faculty members, learning materials and other students on the web and through education networks, students will graduate with an impressive global network of partners and contacts.
19. Increased global competition: As colleges and the business world open up to share information and resources, there will also be more competition for jobs, awards, scholarships and even access to the most prestigious opportunities. Globally, students will reap the benefits of having more contacts and access, but they will also be driven to compete against an even greater student-populated marketplace., especially as countries that do not typically compete with the U.S. will be able to do so once they have access to open and distance education resources.
20. More academic programs for skilled professions: As more young people go to college and earn higher degrees, there will be a shortage of skilled workers and laborers. Universities of the future may have to offer more vocational programs.
21. Universities will have a more global perspective: Universities will have to become more aware of their significance in an increasingly globalized society. They will have to prepare students to compete with students from other countries, think with a global perspective, work in a diverse cultural environment, and also continue to contribute to global education projects and ideas.

Sustainability

Environmental concerns will also change the ways in which universities operate. Here’s an outline of what we can expect for the future of sustainable campuses.

22. More green majors: To keep up with the demand for environmental projects and plans for the future, universities will have to design curricula and major programs for students wanting to enter green-minded fields in architecture and building, social projects, science, and more.
23. Green campuses: College campuses will continue to monitor their carbon footprint and impact on the environment. Newer campuses and renovation projects will favor environmentally friendly plans for energy consumption, waste management, and more.
24. Green-oriented common curriculum: Many colleges and universities require students to take basic courses within a common curriculum, ensuring that they receive a well-rounded education and the practical and theoretical principles that rule our world. In the future, a "green" category may enter the curriculum, requiring student to take classes in sustainability, green design, environmental sciences or green innovation.
25. Shift to focus on local community: As campuses take on a more active role in terms of energy conservation, ecological protection, recycling and other environmental issues, students and college communities may feel more inclined to connect with their local communities for the sake of sustainability.

50 Useful Mind-Mapping Tools for College Students

By Emily Thomas

As a hardworking student, you’ve got a lot to organize, including essays, exams, deadlines, and class schedules, not to mention your social and personal life–plus any part-time jobs you may have taken on. In an effort to keep you more organized, we’ve generated this list of 50 useful mind-mapping tools that are designed to help you see your ideas more clearly, analyze and outline research papers, become more efficient when you study, and get inspired to be more creative in your work.

Free or Open Source

Online college students depend on open and free programs like these when balancing school work and a tight budget.

1. FreeMind: FreeMind is a popular mind mapping software written in Java that allows you to technically outline essays, personal goals, and more.
2. Pimki: This personal information manager will help you be more productive.
3. Cmap Tools: Create concept maps with this free program, as long as it’s for personal use only.
4. MAPMYself: This web-based mind mapping tool is all about the organic mind mapping experience with ideas that literally branch out.
5. Mindomo: Mindomo is another online mind mapping software program that features a simple, streamlined interface.
6. WikkaWiki: This PHP software program is described as “lightweight” and designed for speed.
7. RecallPlus LITE: The LITE version of this study notes software is free and can keep you organized.
8. DeepaMehta: This open source knowledge management tool is designed according to cognitive psychology principles, helping you learn more effectively through mind mapping.
9. Semantik: Semantik is a mind mapping tool designed for students who need help with essays and other papers.
10. Labyrinth: This open mind mapping tool is written in Python and designed to be simple and easy to use without sacrificing advanced features like copy/pasting from a clipboard, saving as an image, and more.
11. View Your Mind: VYM is a thinking and planning tool that helps students and other users with time management, creativity, organization, and other skills.
12. MindRaider: MindRaider is a personal notebook and organizer that lets you use clips from the web, your files, and your brain to stay organized.
13. VUE: Visual Understanding Environment is an open source project created by Tufts University for students and teachers. The mind-mapping program depends on highly visual, digital images and tools to help you stay organized and to boost creativity.

Collaboration

Use these tools to work with classmates, share notes, prepare a presentation, and work on the web.

14. XMind: This social mind mapping tool is great for group projects.
15. Mind42: Mind42 is a mind mapping tool that sits in your browser and lets you work with friends.
16. MindMeister: This bright and colorful online mind mapping system has individual, business (or group), and academic plans.
17. WiseMapping: WiseMapping is all about the free creation of shareable mind maps from your browser. There’s no space limit, either.
18. DropMind: Choose to use a desktop or web-based version of DropMind for real-time collaboration or the ability to add hyperlinks and images.
19. Mindjet: Mindjet is expensive, but when you use the online version to work with friends, you can split the cost.
20. Wridea: Wridea is an idea and content manager marketed towards writers but can work for any individual or group wanting to organize projects, papers and more.
21. Dabbleboard: Dabbleboard is an online white board that lets you create mind maps, sketches, project outlines and more with your group.
22. Mindquarry: Mindquarry is an open source collaboration tool for group editing, file sharing, task management and brainstorming.
23. Comapping: Comapping lets your whole group add notes and plan out projects from one map.
24. Stixy: Use photos, notes, documents and to-do lists to create your mind map with other students.
25. writewith: This collaborative writing tool is great for working on research papers and presentations.

Brainstorming and Project Management

When you need to work on your ideas for a big project, use these tools to organize all of your ideas, edits and deadlines.

26. iMindMap: This software program allows you to use colors and images to create all kinds of projects and presentations.
27. ConceptDraw MindMap: This tool uses visual diagrams to map out ideas and plans.
28. HeadCASE: This artistic, flowing mind map lets you import text from the web and Microsoft Office. Works on Windows only.
29. Mindcad: Mac users especially will benefit from Mindcad’s ability to accept images and text from Word and the Desktop.
30. eminec MYmap: This brainstorming tool lets you link to other documents on your computer and share your notes.
31. Edraw Mindmap: This free mind map depends on a brainstorming diagram and ready-made symbols to help you analyze papers, notes and projects.
32. Personal Brain: The lightest version of Personal Brain is free and works with Mac, Windows and Linux.
33. BraineMine: BrainMine is a mind mapping tool for Windows that is equipped to manage research projects, help you organize presentations, and review exam material.
34. 3D Topicscape: The basic version of 3D Topicscape lets you stay on track with to-do lists and mind maps.
35. Twiddla: With Twiddla, you can brainstorm with graphics, photos and web tools.
36. Project2Manage: This online project management tool lets you work with other team members managing task lists, ideas, and more.
37. yWriter5: Use yWriter 5 for writing projects for which you need help organizing, editing and outlining.

Multitasking Study Tools

These mind-mapping tools are about more than brainstorming and outlining. Add images, import data and more.

38. bubbl.us: Create a mind map with bubbl.us and then embed it into your site or blog; save it as an image; or share it with friends.
39. Aibase CS: The Aibase CS is a data manager for outlining, brainstorming, studying and editing graphics.
40. i2Brain: This information manager lets you create as many dimensions off a certain idea or subject as you want, boosting efficiency and creativity.
41. MindGenius: Use this sophisticated mind mapping tool for help with essays, organizing presentations, mastering test concepts, and more.
42. Aviz ThoughtMapper: Create mind maps with this tool, and then convert them to PowerPoint, Word, HTML or PDF.
43. MindVisualizer: With this tool, you can edit text notes, use icons to mark your notes, add hyperlinks and attachments, and more. The price decreases when you add more users to each account.
44. NovaMind: NovaMind lets you create your mind map branches separately before making connections. You can also use animations, create customized themes, and more.
45. MindDecider: This advanced tool generates potential consequences and outcomes for your proposed actions and decisions.
46. Nozbe: Nozbe is a project manager that lets you move around tasks and notes when your ideas and priorities change.

Miscellaneous

These highly specialized mind-mapping tools are great for mobile users, engineering students, and more.

47. Gliffy: Math, business, science and engineering students can create flowcharts and technical drawings with Gliffy.
48. Weilgut MindPlan: This sophisticated program is designed to help Lotus Notes users organize brainstorming, project materials and deadlines.
49. Instaviz: Take mind mapping to your iPhone with Instaviz.
50. MindBerry: BlackBerry users enjoy note-taking organization and mind mapping with this tool.

100 Best Social Sites for Students, Academics and Educators

By Donna Scott

The recession has not been tough on everyone. Products such as Campbell’s Soup and Ramen Noodles have seen significant boosts in sales. Movie theaters and museums are seeing higher attendance as people decide to skip the vacation in favor of staying home. Perhaps no one field or industry has benefited from the recession more than education. As the economy retracts, the number of applicants to colleges and universities rise. Schools may have seen the value of their endowments fall but layoffs have yet to strike the industry. A number of schools are even hiring to accommodate the increase in students. For those heading back to school, here are the 100 best social sites for students, academics and educators.

Students

Young people have always been quicker to adapt to new technology. The Internet has made it especially easier for students to study and share their work, much to the dismay of teachers everywhere. From finding old friends to online collaboration with current classmates, social networks are a powerful tool for modern students.

1. Classmates.com: Keep track and up to date with people who went to school with you. One of the rare sites actually using real names rather than user accounts.
2. College Tonight: A social site specifically for college students, an account requires a college email address with the "edu" ending.
3. Playboy U: A social networking community much like others, offering features such as photo sharing and instant messaging. However, since it is operated by Playboy, the site also offers sex advice geared toward college students.
4. B4Class: A social site primarily aimed at high school and college students.
5. Campusbug: A social learning website for college students. Tries to help students coordinate notes and study sessions.
6. College Classifieds: A community of college students attempting to sell various items such as textbooks and furniture.
7. Graduates.com: A social site helping graduate students stay in touch with old classmates. Excellent for finding that next job or organizing a class reunion.
8. LocalSchools: An interactive education community linking local US colleges and universities. Find your school and connect with users about any common interest or activity.
9. Pazap.com: A student trading site for buying and selling books as well as trading course notes and party information.
10. Quizilla: Quizilla is a social site for teens still in middle and high school.
11. RateMyProfessor.com: Connects students taking similar courses and has them rate past classes. Never deal with attendance grades or tough professors again.
12. Student.com: An online community for the MTV set that also contains information on grants and student loans.
13. StudentSN.com: A social network for students allows users to create home pages sharing contact information and photo albums.
14. Uloop.com: Allows students to trade books, promote parties and other activities. However, it’s limited only to college students with "edu" email addresses.
15. eCRUSH: A social site for college dating, eCRUSH is designed to minimize the hurt of rejection.
16. eSpinTheBottle: A site for high school students to swap advice, photos and create their own profiles.
17. Piczo: A little slice of pop culture heaven, this is a social network for music, movie and TV loving teens. Also offers helpful tips for homework and studying.
18. Faces.com: Highly customizable profiles combined with a youthful community make this a great place for students to spend their spare time.
19. Meetup: Find people near you with similar interests. Rather than developing a distant online relationship, the goal here is to meet up at some point. An awesome site for new students or graduates moving to a new city.
20. MyYearbook: A yearbook meant to follow users for the rest of their lives, this colorful social site is aims to be a part of everyday life offering advice and tools for navigating tenuous social waters.
21. ConnectU: An online community of college students and alumni from schools and universities around the world.
22. Wamba: A world wide Spanish social networking site, Wamba allows Spanish speaking users meet and connect anywhere.
23. Black Planet: The largest online community for African Americans.
24. StudiVZ: A resource for German students studying internationally.
25. CampusBooks: A social network giving students the ability to buy, sell and donate textbooks with little frustration.

Academics

The Internet has undoubtedly changed the way people share information. Sorting through the data has proven to be an extremely difficult task perfectly suited for the collaboration of social networks. These social sites are tailor made so academic users can share reviews, summaries and collaborate on work.

26. Shelfari: A way for book lovers to connect, this networking service allows users to create and share their own virtual book shelves.
27. Revish: Another community letting book lovers review their favorite books, form groups or update their current reading status.
28. Good Reads: A book reader’s community allowing members to review ans share books they read.
29. Connect Via Books: This clever social site connects book lovers based on their reading list and allows them to discover similar interests.
30. Zoetrope: From Francis Ford Coppola’s production company, this site allows poets, musicians, playwrights and a variety of other artists to post their works in progress and get feedback.
31. Pronetos: Seeking to link scholars with the hope of facilitating academic research, Pronetos is free and extremely helpful
32. Academici: A knowledge network for professors and general academics. Includes networks for nearly any subject from gravitational physics to US history.
33. Financial Academics Network: A social site for finance geeks, FAN seeks to connect professors and students financial academics. Search forums, groups and blog postings.
34. Graduate Junction: A social site specifically to help graduate students with their research, Graduate Junction also connects members with industry contacts.
35. Academia: A far reaching connection of academics at universities from around the world. Chat with academics in similar fields or find old classmates.
36. Humanities and Social Sciences Online: Individuals in the science and math sector tend to gravitate to new technologies first often leaving the humanities in the dust. No anymore with this social service dedicated to liberal arts academics.
37. Social Science Research Network: A research network aiming to disseminate information among social scientists and researchers.
38. Access Research Network: A non-profit research network connects researchers in science, technology and society. This site focuses on controversial issues such as abortion and evolution.
39. Rare Diseases Network: From the University of South Florida and supported by the National Institute of Health and the US Dept. of Health and Human Services, this excellent social site connects scientists and researchers working on rare diseases.
40. FUMSI: A powerful research tool that harnesses social networking technology to improve research quality.

Educators

Social networking has certainly made students’ lives easier. Students share homework, notes and test information before teachers and school administrators even know about it. Grade books and lesson plans have been digital for a while but teachers (much like older people in general) have been slower to visit social sites. These social sites for teachers are going to change some outdated thinking.

41. TeachAde: Find other teachers and get resources to help develop professional skills at a great social site for new teachers.
42. 4Teachers: Offers a social community along with tools and information for teachers, this site wants to bring technology to the classroom.
43. Twitter For Teachers: A website and community helping teachers learn how to use Twitter for classroom use with discussions, photos and videos.
44. Classroom 2.0: An active social site for teachers focusing on web 2.0 and collaborative technology for beginners to online networking.
45. Edutagger: A social bookmarking site allowing users to save interesting articles related to education to share with colleagues.
46. The Schools United: This social networking site brings schools together from around the world through videos, blogs and other features.
47. NextGen: This site seeks to supports the worldwide efforts of teachers to make a positive impact in education with technology.
48. Education Leadership: A social networking site aimed at creating and connecting new leaders in education.
49. Passionate Teachers: Share work ideas and strategies with teachers who care deeply about their work and promoting quality teaching.
50. Teachers Network: A social network with great information, videos and podcasts to help teachers. Also includes a section specifically for new teachers.
51. BONy: A European education social network offered for free by the European Union.
52. Global Classroom: A social network of students and teachers seeking access to quality education. Provides free online classrooms for teachers to help integrate the internet into classrooms.
53. EDU4DRR: A social network by and for teachers who want to make a difference in disaster prevention.
54. Learning 2.0: An invitation only learning community for teachers and educators.
55. Comenius Program Network : A network for teachers across Europe to seek support and share ideas to help ensure successful projects.

General

Social sites have come to dominate the Internet. Recently, social networking sites even supplanted pornography in terms of traffic. While there are social networks for virtually any topic or category, an account at one of these major sites is a must to keep your surfing current.

56. Facebook: One of the most popular social networking sites in the world, Facebook has sustained the social networking revolution in the face skeptics and doubters. Currently the king of social sites with over 200 million users worldwide.
57. Bebo: This site combines the connectivity of social sites with blogging, even allowing musicians to upload songs and authors to post chapters of books.
58. MySpace: It’s the social site that made Tom everyone’s friend. Though its popularity has stymied a bit in the face of fierce competition from other sites, MySpace is still popular for its customizable profiles.
59. tribe.net: This site has waxed and waned in popularity among its users. Members join and surf the site to join "tribes" based on their interests. The Burning Man tribe, for example, has over 20,000 members.
60. Tumblr: A blog that lets users post video, articles, images and other interesting material. The site makes it really easy to share content from different users profiles.
61. Twitter: The site that made micro-blogging famous, Twitter has proven itself invaluable to celebrities and media companies looking to share information quickly and easily.
62. Wasabi: A European social site with members primarily from France, Spain, Germany and Italy. Since its founding in 2001, the site has grown with Internet technology adding Web 2.0 functionality like photo sharing and blogs.
63. Friendster: A social network aimed at keeping both old and new friends connected. While having sizeable members in the U.S. the site is mainly popular in Asian countries such as Singapore and the Philippines.
64. LiveJournal: A community of blogs, journals and diaries. The site has drawn a number of notable users such Billy Corgan and Dmitry Medvedev.
65. Multiply.com: The concept is a little foreign to most users online: a social site based real world relationships. Share content and keep up with people you know in real life with an easy and fun interface.
66. Hi5: The Web’s third most popular social networking site links friends along with friends of friends. Extremely popular in Latin American countries.
67. Friends Reunited: Popular in England, Friends Reunited links people with common school or military experiences but also links based on common interests.
68. Xanga: This site offers its users weblogs, photoblogs and videoblogs. Combined with 60 million users, Xanga is top notch social network site.
69. Flingr: Feeds, forums and blogs combined with shared user content make Flingr fun for everyone regardless of age, however users tend to be younger.
70. WorldStuffer: Free classified and social networking sites for your city.

Book Sharing

While it seems the Internet has been slowly replacing paper books for years now, nothing could be further from the truth. Through the collaboration of social networks book lovers are sharing reviews, summaries and lists of favorite books. Some are even swapping their books with others around the world to completely overhaul their personal libraries.

71. America’s Bookshelf: A book exchange community with networks extending across the US.
72. Books Connect: A paid service, social site, BooksConnect shares thousands of books among members.
73. Book Crossing: A community of users from over 130 countries that meet to trade books in public places.
74. Book Ins: A book sharing website giving member a real time used book exchange.
75. Book Mooch: Users exchange books with one another based on a point system. Gain points giving books to other users.
76. Book Sale Scout: An online community of online book sellers based in the US.
77. Book Swim: Most book borrowing services require members to pay for shipping. This site, on the other hand offers free shipping with a couple of catches.
78. Paper Back Swamp: Pay the delivery charge and swap books with other members. Great for rare or obscure titles that are out of print.
79. Read It Swap It: A free service allowing users to exchange books with others.
80. Socialbib: Book swapping network between students.LI>

Professional and Job Opportunities

Employment is unique for those in the education field. Students can rarely work full time schedules and education professionals often fill niche roles. Specific circumstances makes finding work harder but social networks help solve the problem by making easy connections. These social sites are great for helping individuals in education get the jobs they want.

81. AlumWire: AlumWire has been created to assist college students, alumni with professional opportunities.
82. iHipo: An international community for college students and business professionals looking for networking opportunities.
83. Zumeo: On online search database just for students. Find information on internships, post resumes or search for jobs. Easy to use and packed with features.
84. Tapped In: A social network for educational professionals to meet and discuss the finer nuances of their industry.
85. Konnects: This site enables members to create their own networking communities based on profession.
86. LinkedIn: A community of over 40 million professionals exchanging information, ideas and contacts.
87. MEETin: A fun and friendly community for professionals to gather without the pretense of making business connections.
88. Ryze: Business networking for an array of industries. This site offers professionals from over 200 countries a unique, quality networking service.
89. Xing: A network of over seven million professional in industries such as education. The site also offers great organizational tools.
90. Ecademy: Share knowledge, opportunities and contacts with friends and colleagues around the world.

Miscellaneous Social Networking Tools for Students, Academics and Educators

Most major research universities are practically cities unto themselves. Keeping track of updates and events used to be the sole territory of campus newspapers. Social networking sites are making it easier to keep up with obscure university information from sports teams not covered by mainstream press to the latest in research news.

91. YouNoodle: A social networking site designed to connect people involved in university innovation and research. Includes neat little tools like a "Startup Predictor" calculating the potential value of an invention or business after so many years. This is a really great site.
92. Takkle.com: This site offers student athletes the chance to interact with college recruiters and ask questions regarding college sports.
93. Sodahead: Get answers to questions from a range of topics including money, music, schools, research and a lot more. The site also lets users share news stories and voice opinions.
94. diigo: This social tool saves research, highlights and annotates important pages while also managing group projects and sharing content.
95. Fark: A social bookmarking and social networking site with sections for sports, business, showbiz, politics and more.
96. Cramster: This site offers help with math problems, answers to textbook questions or study help. Their premium service makes experts available to answer random questions.
97. Internshipratings.com: Internships have become an increasingly important part of the college experience. Before you apply find out if a particular company is the right fit for you with this helpful social site.
98. Zimride: This carpooling and cab share networking site can save users thousands in fuel costs every year.
99. Box.net: A social network site that allows users to upload files they can make available to other members. Great for group projects or parties.
100. Gradefund: Students with good grades can create their own accounts where sponsors pay money for academic accomplishments.

100 Entrepreneurs You Should Follow and Learn From on Twitter

By Hannah Watson

Business students, whether they attend traditional or online universities, will take challenging classes in finance, management, leadership, and more. But there is so only so much you can learn inside the classroom. Twitter is a great way to broaden your business knowledge and connect with smart and experienced people in all different fields.

If you are one of these students and you’re serious about starting your own business one day, you’ll need first-hand advice from successful entrepreneurs. Twitter is a great resource for making contact and learning from CEOs, branding professionals and small business owners, so check out our list of 100 entrepreneurs you should follow and learn from on Twitter.

CEOs

These CEOs have made their dreams come true by starting companies like eBay, Digg, and more.

1. @kevinrose: Kevin Rose is the founder of Digg who loves to share all kinds of life hacks, business tips and neat photos.
2. @zappos: Zappos.com CEO Tony Hsieh also co-founded the site LinkExchange before selling it to Microsoft for $265 million.
3. @ev: Evan Williams is the CEO of Twitter, so you’ll want to follow him for any first-hand tips and news.
4. @pierre: Pierre Omidyar is the founder of eBay.
5. @JasonCalacanis: Besides being the CEO of Mahalo, Jason Calacanis is also the founder of TechCrunch50 and Weblogs, Inc.
6. @timoreilly: Follow the founder and CEO of O’Reilly media here.
7. @jack: Jack Dorsey is the creator, chairman and co-founder of Twitter.
8. @arrington: TechCrunch founder Michael Arrington tweets about tech news, media trends, and other stuff that can help your business stay current.
9. @Padmasree: Get insightful business analyses that challenge the way you think about Internet, social media and business from Cisco’s CTO, @Padmasree.
10. @mashable: Pete Cashmore is the dashing young CEO at Mashable who frequently tweets articles about business tools and tips.
11. @jeremys: Jeremy Stoppelman is the co-founder and CEO of Yelp.

Branding and Marketing Experts

Get branding tips and marketing insights from these entrepreneurs.

12. @randfish: This feed comes from the CEO of SEOmoz.
13. @Schooley02: Jeremy Schooley is an Internet marketer and entrepreneur who reviews sites and shares business insights.
14. @belasco: Learn online marketing and SEO tips from @belasco.
15. @emad: Emad Fanous has done it all as the CTO of Citysearch, consultant and YellowBot.com founder.
16. @doncampbell: Learn WordPress and SEO tips from Don Campbell’s feed and blog.
17. @netgeek06: This Houston-based Internet geek is a search engine marketer, blogger and SEO consultant for small businesses.
18. @MaryBowling: If you want to become a master at SEO and local search, follow Mary Bowling.
19. @w2scott: Will Scott shares his knowledge about online branding, web tools and marketing.
20. @sernovitz: Andy Sernovitz has marketed himself as the "word of mouth marketing guy."

Social Media Experts and Entrepreneurs

Social media is a powerful tool for small business owners. These entrepreneurs have either started social media sites or are known experts for online networking.

21. @chrisbrogan: Learn how to use social media to help your business grow by following popular Tweeter Chris Brogan.
22. @fredwilson: Fred Wilson is a venture capitalist and favorite Twitterer to follow because of his tips on effective social networking.
23. @dsifry: David Sifry founded Technorati and other successful websites.
24. @jowyang: Jeremiah Owyang has a strong employment history as a social media launcher and consultant for businesses.
25. @eugenelee: Eugene Lee is the CEO of Socialtext who tweets about classical music and finding inspiration.
26. @kelkelly: This Tweeter is a pro at social media, web marketing, PR and more.
27. @davesnyder: David Snyder is the co-founder of Search and Social.
28. @calbucci: @calbucci is the founder of social site Sampa.com.
29. @sumaya: Sumaya Kazi is the senior social media manager at Sun Microsystems and was named one of "America’s Best Young Entrepreneurs" by BusinessWeek.
30. @sebprovencher: Sebastien Provencher is the co-founder of Praized Media, which is used on Facebook and more.

Blogging, Media and Internet

Get tips on blogging and using the Internet to help your business or freelance career from these tweeters.

31. @rjpittman: R.J. Pittman was the co-founder and CEO at Digital Courier Technologies and Groxis, Inc. Currently, he’s the director of project management at Google.
32. @scottros: Scott Rosenberg is the co-founder of Salon and is a prominent blogger.
33. @newscred: This feed comes from the young entrepreneur who co-founded NewsCred and who likes to tweet about new technology and social media opportunities.
34. @GuyKawasaki: Guy Kawasaki is one of the preeminent experts on online branding, networking, and more.
35. @r27: Rajesh Pancholi shares all kinds of links and tips for web design, online communication and marketing, and more.
36. @rseanlindsay: Get web 2.0 tips, business strategies and more.
37. @danielkehoe: Follow this feed for links to articles about startups, networking, and using technology for your business.
38. @yummyman: Patrick Sexton tweets and blogs about Google tools and SEO tips.
39. @mdjensen: Follow Michael D Jensen to learn about Twitter tools, online marketing, iPhone tools and more.
40. @gsterling: Greg Sterling shares Internet industry news, local search tips, Nielsen findings, and other information of use to businesses with an online presence.
41. @aaronwall: Follow the SEO Book magnate for useful tips on online networking etiquette and more.
42. @problogger: Learn how to use Twitter and blogging to grow your business from Darren Rowse.
43. @tamar: Tamar Weinberg is the community director for Mashable and manages her own projects, too.
44. @TimboReid: Tim Reid has great Internet marketing ideas for small businesses.

Freelancers and Small Business

These tweeters have taken their hobbies and created successful careers in writing, design, and small business.

45. @copyblogger: Brian Clark is the poster child for turning a freelance career into something successful.
46. @dgugnani: Divya Gugnani is a venture capitalist turned entrepreneur and the founder of Behind the Burner.
47. @justcreative: Jacob Cass is a successful freelancer with three websites and a graphic/logo design career.
48. @davidmihm: David Mihm is a freelance web designer and SEO consultant.
49. @JeanAnnVK: Jean Ann VanKrevelen is an author who has also successfully created several websites.
50. @smallbiztrends: Anita Campbell is the CEO of a small business community and shares business blog posts, marketing news, and more.
51. @farahato: Moe Farahat is an online freelancer and social media pro.
52. @brutonnb: Here you’ll find a freelance writer and blogger with a large following.
53. @absolutelytrue: Follow this entrepreneurial mom and freelancer who shares tips for web design, content development, and more.
54. @imjustcreative: Graham Smith is a blogger, writer, and brand builder.
55. @JenniferCrego: This freelancer is also a blogger and the director of business development for the site GiftTree.com.
56. @G0: Follow this feed for web tool recommendations, social media tips, and more.
57. @chrisspooner: Chris Spooner is a freelance graphic and web designer who shares tips and tutorials on his site and Twitter feed.
58. @SabrinaAlexis: Sabrina Alexis is behind the popular fashion site A New Mode.

Authors and Speakers

Listen to the advice given by these entrepreneurs who are passionate about helping other ambitious individuals accomplish their goals.

59. @shelisrael: Shel Israel has written books like Twitterville: How Businesses Can Survive in the New Global Neighborhoods.
60. @mikeboland: Mike Boland is an analyst with The Kelsey Group who speaks about online marketing, search engine optimization, and more.
61. @stevenbjohnson: Steven Johnson has written six books and is the creator of Outside.in.
62. @donnafenn: Donna Fenn is the author of Wikinomics, Grown Up Digital and other books.
63. @pamslim: Pamela Slim is the author of Escape from Cubicle Nation.

Startups and Venture Capitalists

Learn about business investing and startups here.

64. JayNeely: Jay is a Boston-based entrepreneur who tweets about business marketing and startups.
65. @LilDanny: Daniel McClintock is the CEO of Package Web Deals and a venture startup-capitalist.
66. @onstartups: This feed is maintained by Dharmesh Shah, founder and CTO of Hubspot.
67. @startupprincess: Kelly King Anderson helps women entrepreneurs grow their businesses.
68. @AlexanderLaw: Alex Lawrence is a "serial entrepreneur" and venture capitalist.
69. @frankidurbin: Franki Durbin is blogging, tweeting, and designing her way to becoming a venture capitalist.
70. @DavidAnthony21: Follow vc and blogger David Anthony for book reviews, business analysis, and more.
71. @bijan: Bijan Sabet is a Twitter board member and venture capitalist.
72. @markpeterdavis: Follow IT venture capitalist Mark Peter Davis for business news, trends, small business tools, and more.

Finance and Wealth

Get tips on managing money and finding budget-friendly tools here.

73. @StefanW: This feed is full of links to articles about starting a business, managing your money, using budget-friendly marketing techniques, and more.
74. @DarrenLabrum: Darren Labrum is a lead developer for a start up and a business management student.

Strategy and Innovation

These tweeters share the tips that helped them develop cutting edge, effective business plans.

75. @chrispund: Chris Pund is the founder of DormRoomBiz, a site for young entrepreneurs.
76. @RickM: Rick Meyers founded TalentZoo.com and shares his opinions on successful business ideas and trends.
77. @FranchiseKing: Joel Libava is a marketing and business consultant.
78. @smallbiztweets: Alex Bellinger’s small business podcast is full of information for entrepreneurs.
79. @whatworks: Business.com’s Daniel Kehrer is an entrepreneur, columnist, business owner, author and more who’s passionate about helping businesses and entrepreneurs become successful.
80. @brianmoran: Brian Moran of Small Business Edge shares tips for growing your business with the Internet.
81. @deanjones: Dean Jones is a small business consultant full of helpful tips.
82. @deniseoberry: Denise O’Berry of justforsmallbusiness.com tweets here.
83. @ducttape: John Jantsch of the famous Duct Tape Marketing blog tweets marketing and branding secrets.
84. @DIYMarketers: Learn DIY marketing and business tips from Ivana Taylor.
85. @DotSauce: Mark Fulton tweets and blogs about social media, web design, web tools, SEO and innovation.

Celebrity Entrepreneurs

These entrepreneurs have created lucrative careers for themselves.

86. @Oprah: Oprah is the queen of personal branding and creating business opportunities.
87. @MarthaStewart: You can learn more than just yummy recipes from @MarthaStewart.
88. @algore: Since being U.S. Vice President, Al Gore has created his own career path.
89. @BobVilacom: Bob Vila is a TV host, author and head of the DIY site BobVila.com.
90. @cesarmillan: Follow The Dog Whisperer and entrepreneur Cesar Millan here.
91. @KimKardashian: Love her or hate, her, Kim Kardashian is quite an entrepreneur and branding expert.
92. @lancearmstrong: Lance Armstrong’s feed is full of inspiration, branding tips, and more.
93. @iamdiddy: No industry is off limits to P.Diddy.
94. @stevewozniak: One of the original computer and tech entrepreneurs, Steve Wozniak tweets about the iPhone, Linux and more.
95. @drdrew: Dr. Drew has become a hugely successful, highly marketable sex and love expert.
96. @jamie_oliver: Chef Jamie Oliver is a branding god.
97. @JessicaSimpson: Jessica Simpson is an entertainer, as well as a shoe and clothing designer.
98. @JoyVBehar: Joy Behar is a TV host, comedian and author.
99. @LaurenConrad: Reality TV star Lauren Conrad is also a fashion designer and author.
100. @PerezHilton: Perez Hilton started his own, uber-successful celebrity blog.