I am not a huge fan of social media because the interactions can turn out to be very negative.

But then I wasn't interacting much with potential tenants.

There is a you tube video that might help.  

For hobbies I love technology (programming & video games), fishing, and traveling.

Will he miss out on the student interactions that occur by being on campus and participating in more activities?

I'd recommend that you set up keywords for your area and interests so that you're notified when they're used and then start interacting.

This local TV video pretty much summarizes my experience:http://www.kmov.com/story/32742794/news-4-investig...

Things are growing beneath and within you that you can’t yet see – but you will.Here is a video clip from a favorite inspirational movie of mine called Facing the Giants.

I have had the listing for a short while and although I have done quite a bit of online marketing between facebook ads, youtube videos and network syndication (Realbird) I haven't had a showing and only one inquiry.

http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.udemy.com/biggerpockets-real-estate-investing-course/ (video with 64 lectures and approx 6hrs of material)https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing (Ultimate beginner's guide to REI)REI can be very daunting, but, before you go searching for that 1st buy, please take a few minutes to bone up on the tips in link below.https://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2014/12/19/real-estate-investing-success-smart-tips/REI books suggested by BPershttps://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2015/11/13/7-real-estate-books-beginner-investors/ (7 absolute must read books for beginner REI)http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?