Coming to university for the first time is exciting. You’ll no doubt want to make connections and friends as soon as you can, and there are lots of ways to do this, from Fresher’s events to meeting other students in your residences or on your course. But don’t worry if you don’t make loads of friends straight away, it can also be challenging to find your footing. A great way to meet fellow students with similar interests, ease this transition to university and enhance your experience is by joining a society.

What is a society?

Societies are groups of students who come together over a shared hobby or interest. The Students’ Union supports over 180 student societies, so there’s bound to be one that appeals to you.

Benefits of joining a society

Meeting new people: joining a society allows you to meet like-minded people and form new friendships. It is also a way of meeting people outside of your course and accommodation, broadening your social network.

Engaging in existing hobbies: coming to university does not mean you need to stop your existing hobbies, be that sport, acting, art or any other activity. There are many different societies and likely one that aligns with your hobbies. Engaging in your hobbies can be a positive outlet from academic stress.

Trying out new things: university is a time for exploration and self-discovery and societies give you the chance to try something new. For example, you might want to learn a new language and you can do this by attending the language café. There is such a variety of societies, ones that you might not even imagine exist.

Feeling part of something: being part of a society gives you a sense of belonging; it is a community within the University where you can share experiences and relate to each other. This can be extremely positive especially upon moving somewhere new.

A society I am part of

I am currently part of the dog-walking society. This involves taking dogs out for a walk in Stanmer Park. These dogs belong to owners in Brighton, and it helps them when they are unable to take their dogs out for a walk. I have found it to be a very positive experience and a great way to meet new people. It’s a break from studies and a way to exercise as well. Spending time with the dogs is also very therapeutic and can be extremely positive for those who have pets back at home that they miss.

You can find a full list on the Students' Union website.

What if you have an idea for another society?

Can’t find a society that you think should exist? You can set up your own! Societies require a minimum of three members, so you just need to grab a couple of friends and the Union will help you set it up yourself.

Tugce studies Psychology with Neuroscience. She enjoys going for walks in nature and attending dog-walking society at uni.

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