Starting university marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter filled with fresh experiences, endless opportunities, and the chance to meet people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life.
As you embark on this new journey and begin settling into your student apartment in London, Ontario, you'll meet new people and explore your off-campus surroundings. It’s a time of discovery, and one great way to deepen your connection to campus life is by joining a society. Societies are groups of students who share common interests, offering a fun and supportive way to connect, learn, and make the most of your university experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about picking, joining, and staying involved in societies.
Why join a Uni society?
Meet like-minded people
Societies are built around shared interests, whether that’s photography, sustainability, gaming, or politics. Joining a group aligned with your passions means you’ll instantly be surrounded by people who speak your language. It’s a great way to meet others outside your course and form lasting friendships.
Build soft skills and confidence
Participating in societies helps develop valuable skills, including leadership, time management, communication, and teamwork. These are just as important as your academic achievements and can give you a leg up when applying for jobs or internships later on.
Boost your mental wellbeing
University life can sometimes feel overwhelming. Having a regular social outlet through a society can help you unwind, de-stress, and maintain a healthy balance between study and fun. Feeling connected also reduces loneliness, especially if you’re far from home.
Types of societies to explore
Most universities offer hundreds of societies to choose from. Here are a few broad categories you’ll often find:
- Academic societies: Linked to specific degrees (like Law, Engineering, or Psychology), these provide networking events, study groups, and career panels.
- Cultural and international clubs: Perfect for celebrating your heritage or exploring new cultures.
- Performance and arts groups: From theatre to dance to live music, these societies are ideal for students with a creative inclination.
- Sports and fitness clubs: Great for staying active and being part of a team.
- Volunteer and advocacy groups: Focused on social issues, charity work, or environmental activism.
- Hobby-based clubs: Consider options such as film appreciation, chess, debating, or food tasting. The possibilities are endless.
How to get started
Attend your Uni’s clubs and societies fair
This is usually held during orientation or welcome week. Every society has a stall where you can chat with current members, get a feel for what they offer, and sign up for mailing lists or taster events.
Try before you commit
Most clubs host welcome sessions or trial events, allowing you to join in without needing to become a full member right away. Attend a few different ones to see what suits your personality and schedule.
Don’t be afraid to go solo
You don’t need to bring a friend along to try a new club. Everyone’s in the same boat, especially at the start of the year. Showing up alone is often how some of the strongest connections are made.
Making the most of your involvement
Take on a role
Once you feel comfortable, consider joining a society committee as a treasurer, events coordinator, or social media rep. It’s a fantastic way to build leadership experience and make a meaningful contribution to a cause you care about.
Attend events regularly
Consistency helps you feel more at home. Whether it’s weekly meetups or larger events like formals or fundraisers, showing up often leads to stronger relationships.
Participate in events
Whether it’s a social gathering, fundraiser, or workshop, attending events helps you get to know others outside of regular meetings.
Building connections is about putting yourself out there. The more you participate, the more relationships you’ll build.
Balancing your time between studies and social life
Joining a society can be a great way to balance your academic commitments with your social life. But it’s essential to manage your time effectively so that neither your studies nor your social life suffers. Here are some tips:
- Plan ahead: Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of meetings, events, and deadlines.
- Prioritize tasks: Ensure that you complete your assignments and study for exams while also setting aside time for social activities.
- Take breaks: Sometimes, it’s okay to skip an event if you need to catch up on studies or simply take a rest.
Remember, balance is key. You want to ensure that your university experience is both academically successful and socially fulfilling.
Final thoughts
Joining a university society is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in campus life and create meaningful connections. Whether you’re looking to improve your skills, meet new people, or just enjoy some downtime, these societies offer countless opportunities.
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