Contesting

Contesting allows hams to connect with other stations, swap some kind of confirmation information, and then move on to the next contact. These activities are both fun, and great for training.

DXCC

The ARRL has created a contest that requires the amateur radio operator to provide 100 confirmed contacts, each in a different country. The ARRL DX Century Club page has all of the details you need to start working on this certificate.