Every university has a broad range of societies which cater to a wide variety of interests. From the musicians and athletes to the book lovers and food enthusiasts, no matter your passion, there’s likely a society for you. Even if there isn’t a society that piques your interest, there’s always the option of setting up your own. Joining a society is something universities encourage, often through events like the freshers’ fair. However, you’re probably wondering why you should. So here are the 10 benefits of joining a student society.
The benefits of joining a student society include:
- Socialising
- Inclusion
- Activities
- Mental wellness
- Career progression
Read more about how the benefits of student societies might impact you more specifically.
1. It’s a good way to make friends
Joining a society is a great way to make friends beyond your course. Societies are often quite niche, meaning you’ll be amongst like-minded people who share commonalities or your interests. Most society events are activities or social gatherings, which are fantastic opportunities to mingle and provide natural icebreakers and shared interests as conversation starters. Although it can be daunting to start conversations, remember attendees are there to socialise and make connections, so take full advantage of the opportunity societies provide you to make friends.
2. Get involved with campus life
Society events are mostly held on campus, ranging from film screenings in lecture theatres to pub quizzes in the student bar. These events are a great excuse to get out of the house and stay engaged with campus life. It’s easy to fall into the habit of heading straight home after lectures, but attending society events like these gives you a good reason to stick around, explore the campus and make the most of what your university has to offer.
3. Engage in existing hobbies or find a new one
The academic demands of uni can often distract you from the things you really enjoy. Societies are often centred around hobbies like reading, sports or music. Joining a society is a great way to find something new like a music society, I found that the workload from university meant that I had little time for the things I really enjoyed but joining my university’s book club I got to engage in reading and other arts and crafts which reignited my passion for these hobbies.
4. Create a community
University can feel a little isolating, especially if you haven’t yet found your crowd. In such a large and fast-paced environment, it’s easy to feel like just another face in the crowd. Student societies offer an easy way to connect with others and find your place on campus. They create smaller, supportive communities where you can build friendships, often with people who share your background, culture, or interests. Societies like ABACUS, ACS, Christian Union, ISoc, Hellenic or Desi Soc can help you feel at home, offering a sense of belonging and familiarity. Whether through cultural events, social activities, or shared goals, these groups provide a comforting corner within a big campus, making university life feel more personal and welcoming.
5. Helps with work-life balance
Moving to a new city and adjusting to university life can be overwhelming. Especially at the start of term, it can be difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance, and it’s easy to get caught up in lectures, assignments, and deadlines. Joining a student society gives you a much-needed outlet to unwind and have fun. It encourages you to make time for socialising, hobbies, and events. A benefit of joining a society for leisure, you can help find that balance and find ways to enjoy your university experience beyond just academics.
6. A way to have fun and destress
Societies are not just about meetings, they’re also about having fun, memorable experiences. Even if you’re not an official member, many societies host open events like socials, themed nights, and formal balls that anyone can attend. In cities like London, where going out can be expensive, student society events offer a budget-friendly alternative for fun. Many are subsidised or free, making them ideal for students looking for affordable ways to enjoy their free time. Whether it’s a cultural celebration, a quiz night, or a formal ball, societies help you make the most of your time at university.
7. Help with your future career
Another benefit of joining a student society that people often forget is that they offer more than just social opportunities. Most societies host events which can help you gain valuable skills and experiences that enhance your CV. Societies like student magazines or newspapers, Model UN, debate clubs, or law societies give you the chance to develop practical skills such as public speaking, teamwork, leadership, writing, and event planning. Additionally, through attending talks, participating in competitions, or getting involved in outreach and networking events, you can deepen your understanding of your chosen field or important topics. These are fantastic opportunities which can show future employers your initiative and commitment. These experiences can set you apart in job applications and interviews, making student societies an investment for your personal and professional growth in the future.
8. Attend events you wouldn’t have otherwise
Being part of a student society can encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and attend events you might not have considered otherwise. With such a wide range of societies which hold a variety of events, it means that you will be exposed to new perspectives and activities. This not only helps you grow personally but can also diversify your university experience.
9. Builds confidence
The main benefit I found from joining a student society is that it is a great way to build your confidence. By taking on a committee role, I found myself pushing myself to talk to people to welcome them to our society, being more assertive when planning events (room-booking can be a ruthless sport) and developing my leadership skills. If a committee role isn’t for you, just attending socials and participating in events can help you become more comfortable meeting new people and trying new things. Over time, attending society events helps boost your self-confidence not just socially, but also in academic and professional settings.
10. Helps with health and fitness
Staying active at university can certainly be a challenge, especially with gym memberships being so expensive on a budget. Joining a sports or fitness society is a more affordable and fun alternative. Whether it’s football, netball, yoga, or hiking, these societies help you stay fit and maintain a healthy lifestyle while also making friends with similar interests.
If this has convinced you to join a student society, but you can’t find the right one for you, why not set up your own? Follow this guide to see how you can create your own student society.
