University Societies: Everything a Student Needs to Know!

• Author: Stephanie Odili, Psychology BSc, School of Humanities and Social Science

(At the University of Brighton the societies are run by the Brighton Students’ Union – BSU)

As an incoming student, or if you’re just considering going to university – you’ll probably have heard about or been encouraged to join a society. At University of Brighton, societies are an amazing way to meet people, have fun and make the most of your university life. If you’ a’re still wondering what university societies are and how to join, then keep reading. This Brighton blog will tell you everything you need to know! 

Why Join a Society? 

Joining a society whilst at Brighton uni, is one of the best and fastest ways of building your own community away from home. Think of it this way: You’re in a new, unfamiliar place, about to start a new chapter of your life, most likely away from loved ones. This is a way to discover and meet individuals in the same situation as you – people that share the same interests! That is a perfect recipe of new friendships and memories that will last beyond your degree. These other individuals help to navigate the changes together, whilst building a solid friendship in your chosen society of interest. 

What Societies Are There at Brighton?

The University of Brighton has over 100 Brighton SU societies split into several categories, run by the Brighton Student Union (BSU) It ranges from:

Academic societies

Cultural, international and lifestyle societies

Creative and performing arts groups

Sports clubs and hobby-based societies

There is a wide variety of options so it is up to you to choose which society you would like to join. 

How to Choose the Perfect Society for You  

There’s something for everyone at Brighton uni. If you’re interested in more than one or cant make up your mind, you should sign up to a few and give it a try! There are no limits to how many societies you can join. You can even create a society of your own if it doesn’t already exist. All you need is two or more people that share the same interest as you and are willing to be in a society together and inform the BSU Officers.

How Do I Join a Society? 

All societies available are listed on the Brighton Student Union (BSU) website with an overview about them and an option to join the society. You can also choose to sign up during Freshers’ week as you will be able to see all the societies’ stands at the freshers’ fair events and speak to some members of the societies in person.  

You may be required to pay a fee for some of the activities, but it is free to join any society.  Some bonding activities the BSU and societies organise may include Go Karting, Painting, Arts & Crafts and lots more ‘Give it a Go’ activities! 

Other activities may involve members coming together to make an impact in the community such as walking dogs, visiting charity organisations, changing something in the university or having an environmental cleaning day in the community. 

Tips for Actively Participating in Society Activities 

As mentioned earlier, there are no limits to how many societies you can join as long as you show interest in it and participate effectively in the society’s activities. Every society has their different activity layout; the Pool Society for instance, may decide that they meet every Wednesday for games night and as a member it is recommended to attend regularly when possible.

Make sure to join your society’s group chat to stay updated on events and socials. It’s the best way to stay in the loop and make the most of your time with Brighton Uni societies.

Balancing Societies with Studies 

Below are a few tips if you are wondering how you may be able to manage your time effectively, so your studies or social life do not suffer. 

• Have your set priorities:
  
  The Brighton SU and societies plan their events around the academic year calendar, so they know of course what time of the uni year to plan certain events. There will be no distractions to study time so you have time for both studies and socials.  

• Plan ahead:
  
  Your weeks will run smoother if they are well thought out and planned. A bit of weekly planning helps things run smoother.

• Socialise wisely:
  
  You do not have to be at every activity, but you should make time to socialise and bond with other members of your society. 

• Find your Balance:
  
  Only join the number of societies you believe you can handle alongside studying, you are also free to leave some societies if you find it is not for you or you are unable to find time for it. 

I hope this information helps you find and choose a society that will make your university experience more exciting! We look forward to having you study with us and seeing what society you join! Good luck! 

–

Summary: Societies at Brighton Uni are a huge part of what makes the student experience so special. Whether you want to try something new, meet people from around the world, or just have fun between lectures, there’s a Brighton Society for everyone. Check out the full list on the Brighton SU Societies page — and find your community at Brighton!