Student View: Societies

I don’t know what clichéd description of the wonders of joining societies at university I could write that hasn’t already been written by thousands before me. However, despite the numerous platitudes, societies, sports teams and other student organisations are at the core of the university experience. They are the ‘glue’ of the social life on campus, and one way to make friends at university — something a lot of freshers worry about. I’m sure you’ve heard it before, but on the subject of amking friends, there really isn’t anything to worry about!

Joining a society is a wonderful way to meet new people, and especially ones who share your passions. Have a good look around at Freshers’ Fair, as most societies and clubs have their own stalls set up during the event, and see if you can have a chat with some of the current members. Talking to the students at the stalls is also a great way to try something completely different or new, as everyone there is trying to encourage you to join their society. So I’d definitely recommend keeping an open mind. If you do your research beforehand, you could also check out the Queen Mary Students’ Union website, which contains information on all the societies available at the university. If you still don’t find something you fancy, why not start your own?

Believe it or not, some students find joining the ‘right’ society can be one of the most stressful elements of first year. It’s great if you get it right the first time, but it is equally important to realise that it’s also completely okay to not like a society, to not find life-long friends on your first go and to quit, move on and make space for something that suits you better. I had friends joining new societies right up until their final year, so it’s also important to remember that those doors don’t close the moment Freshers’ Fair is over. You can join most societies all throughout the academic year, and you can join as many as you like. I certainly didn’t make any lasting friendships in the first society I joined, and it’s not anyone’s fault – I just didn’t ‘click’ with the people there. I did however, on my second attempt, and the people I met there are now — that oh-so-stale (but very true) phrase— my friends for life!