Blog Article
If you ask someone how they made friends at university, they’ll probably mention joining societies. But what is a university society, why is it a great place to make friends and how can you get involved?
What is a society at university?
A university society is a student-run club or group that brings people together around a shared interest, hobby, identity, or goal. You’ll get to meet people who love the same things as you – whether that’s dance, rugby, gaming or something completely different.
Some societies are similar to extra-curricular clubs you may have joined at school, college or sixth form as it involves socialising with other students outside of your studies.
What types of societies are there?
Societies will be different at every university, but a few of the most common types, and the ones we have at BCU, include:
- Competitive sports: Football, basketball, cricket, boxing, netball and so many more!
- Active and performance: Fancy yourself as a cheerleader, Bolly-pop dancer or yoga master? There’s a society for that!
- General interest and media: Are you a film enthusiast, Swiftie or a gamer? You can join a society to share your passion with others.
- Academic: This is a chance to socialise with people in your course or faculty away from lectures.
- Faith and Culture: Meet people who share your faith or culture. Societies include Sikh Society, Christian Union, the Afro-Caribbean Society and many more.
- Liberation societies: Get support and connect with other people in your community, whether that’s the LBGTQ+ community, other neurodiverse students or students who are parents and carers.
See the full list of societies at BCU.
“I attended the events organised by the BCU Indian Society on Navratri and Diwali and I thoroughly enjoyed the event and meeting new people. The diversity, societies and cultural events at BCU really are one of a kind.”
- Gitika Gidwani, English and Creative Writing student
Can I join more than one society?
Yes! Lots of students are part of different societies.
Can I join a society if I commute to university?
100%. Societies are for all students – whether you live on campus or travel in each day. Events and meetups are scheduled with flexibility in mind, so commuting students can still get involved.
Plus, joining a society means you can meet more people outside of your course. You might meet other commuters or people who live in accommodation that you wouldn’t have met otherwise.
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Can I start my own society?
Definitely. If you have an interest or hobby that doesn’t already have a society, you can submit an application to start one. Usually, you’ll need to have a few members who want to join the society and a rough idea of how the society will run.
Does it cost money to join a society?
This depends on the society. Some are free whilst some charge a small fee every year to join (£2-£10) and there may be additional fees if you go to events or go on trips with your society.
How does a society work?
After joining the society, you’d be invited to regular meetups and events. This might look like a monthly cinema trip with the Film Society, a weekly match and social with the Basketball Team or a catch-up with the Islamic Society every few weeks. Society meetups range from organised activities to casual drop-ins or outings.
Societies are run by students, so you’ll also have opportunities to get involved with planning events and running the society. This is called being a committee member. It’s a great opportunity to develop soft skills that look great on your CV.
How do I find societies at university?
You’ll usually spot them during the Welcome Fair - a huge event where every club and society sets up a stall to answer questions about their society and to encourage you to sign up.
You can also browse the student union website, follow society Instagram pages, or check out posters and digital screens around campus.
Lots of societies hold ‘give it a go’ sessions at the start of each term, so you can try out a new society or activity before paying the joining fee.
Why should I join a society at university?
Societies are one of the best ways to make friends. They give you a chance to:
- Meet people outside your course or accommodation
- Try something totally new
- Gain soft skills such as teamwork, communication and leadership skills
- Build your CV
- De-stress and have fun
Why societies matter
University isn’t just about lectures and deadlines, it’s also about finding your people, having fun, and building memories that last beyond graduation.
If you’re starting university this September, keep an eye out during Freshers’ Week for societies and ‘give it a go’ sessions. Don’t be afraid to try something new, and get stuck in!
