Earlier this week, Twitter announced that it is working on its new Discover tab, to help its users discover interesting stories through the microblogging website. With this new addition, users can get access to news bits that are trending on the website, seperated from your original tweet stream.

However, elsewhere in the world, people are using the service to connect in innovating and interesting ways. Here are some such stories for you to ponder on.
 

An MBA Seat For A Tweet
Ever thought about getting your MBA degree from a foreign university? Universities in the US usually see several Indian students lining up for admissions. However, the University of Iowa seemed to be growing bored of reading heavily edited, uninspiring, and unoriginal essays that were being submitted by potential candidates. The Tippie MBA College held a contest on the microblogging website, where they asked aspiring candidates "What makes you an exceptional Tippie Full-time MBA candidate and future MBA hire? Creativity encouraged!" As #TippieTweet started trending, Noida-based tech associate Rahul Rathi bagged a $36,400 scholarship to attend the program. For all those parents who think that social networks are a waste of time, think again. It just might land your kid a seat in a prestigious school, and cost you practically nothing!
 

A Twitter Treasure Hunt
People share their travel pictures and experiences through their tweets all the time. However, this time a US-based travel TV show has decided to come up with something more interesting. Starting 9th May, they have planned a treasure hunt to promote a culinary competition named “Around the World in 80 Plates". Available only for US-based users, the social media challenge has put up plane tickets for destinations such as Argentina, Italy, China, and France.

As per the contest, every time a #80plateschallenge tweet goes live, one of 10 hidden locations will be unveiled.  Users can download a map of the United States from BravoTV.com and as the tweets increase, the map will zoom in to finally declare the location of two plane tickets, along with the destination featured in the week's episode. Once revealed, the first person to pick up the tickets of the windshield of an Infiniti JX, wins. Additionally, fans will also get heads up and clues on Infiniti’s Facebook page or Twitter handle.

Considering that several hit shows from the US have a desi version as well, let's keep our fingers crossed that such interesting contests make it to the other side of the world as well.
 

Virtual Concerts
If flying and studying is not your thing, and you prefer music instead, then Twitter will soon be putting up virtual concerts for your listening pleasure as Pepsi will bring online concerts in a tie up with the microblog. While details about which bands would perform, and how many concerts will be held is currently not known, the events are slated to start this June. An interesting direction for two services trying to target the youth.

Tags : Internet, Twitter, Kamakshi