Get stuck in with clubs and societies

University societies have the potential to create great memories for you during your time at uni. No matter what your interests are, you'll be able to find (or start) a university club or society suited to you!

What are clubs and societies?

Clubs and societies are normally looked after by your students' union (if you want to find out more about students' unions we've got an A-Z here). Sometimes sports teams are looked after by the university, but it differs wherever you go. Make sure you check both your university and the students' union website when you're looking!

Essentially, a club or society is an opportunity to meet like-minded people or to try new activities. There are many different types of clubs and societies ranging from political, cultural, artistic, sport, media, faith and more.

Clubs and societies often have a committee of members who look after all the business aspects too. You can have a chair or someone who is essentially in charge, treasurer, social secretary, marketing team and loads more. So, another benefit of joining is that you'll be getting some work experience as well.

Do you what you love

University is a great place to pursue your passions, or even find a new one! Getting as much experience as possible at university helps broaden your horizons and a great way to do this is to join a club or society.

And you can find people who love the same thing you do - you'll make tons of friends and your social life will be nice and full.

Clubs and societies can cover so many different things - make sure you check out all the ones available, so whether it's drama or films, politics or trampolining, football or frisbee there's going to be something for you.

And if nothing on offer interests you, remember you can always start a new one! No matter how niche, there may just be someone out there wanting to join you. There have been many weird and wonderful clubs and societies that have come before, such as Extreme Ironing at University of Nottingham, Custard Wrestling Society at Cardiff University, Hummus Society at LSE, or Disney Society at University of Exeter (see, there really is something for everyone!).

Become a sports superstar

If you have a passion for sport and want to carry on in a sport you already love, there will almost definitely be a sports team for you to join. Or there could be a sport you've always wanted to try, like snowboarding, bouldering, fencing or horse riding - it’s a great opportunity to do something new.

You can even get competitive and get involved in league sports. Some sports clubs here at Solent compete in the BUCS (British University and College Sport) leagues or local/national leagues. The great thing about playing competitively is you could be travelling across the UK, or even abroad, to compete against other universities. So, if you've got some good skills to bring, you could be part of a championship team!

Live your best life

There are loads of perks to joining a club - making new friends, sharing passions, getting active, gaining confidence and learning new things.

If you've checked out the clubs and societies at your university and your favourite thing isn't there, don't worry. They're SUPER easy to start.

The thought of starting a society may seem daunting but it’s easily done. All you have to do is get a group of at least four like-minded people together and fill in a new society application form. The students' union or university will then review it to make sure it fits their values and that there’s nothing too similar already available. The chances are, if you’re interested in starting a society, there will be people that will want to join!