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 you probably have come across or have been encouraged to join one or more of our Societies here at University of Brighton. If you are still wondering what Societies are and how to join, then I advise you to continue reading… 

Why Join a Society? 

Joining a society whilst at uni is one of the best and fastest ways of building your own community away from home in a new place. Think of it this way! You are in a new place, about to start a new chapter of your life, most likely away from loved ones, then you discover a set of individuals in the same situation as you, who also happen to share the same interests. That is a perfect recipe to help you, and these other individuals navigate the changes whilst building a solid friendship in your chosen society of interest. 

How to Choose the Perfect Society for You

The University of Brighton has over 100 societies split into several categories, run by the Brighton Student Union It ranges from academic, lifestyle, cultural, spiritual and more! There is a wide variety of options so it is up to you to choose which society you would like to join. 

There are no limits to how many societies you can join, if you’re interested in it, you should join it! You can also 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

What to Expect and How to Sign Up 

All societies available are listed on the 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. If your chosen society has a group chat where information is communicated, make sure to join so you don’t miss out on all the fun bonding activities planned!

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 BSU and societies know of course what time of the uni year to plan certain events so there will be no distractions to study time.  

• Plan ahead:
  
  Your weeks will run smoother if they are well thought out and planned. 

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

• 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!