Joining a Society: The Best Decision You’ll Ever Make

Friday 29-11-2024 - 16:06

Sure, as your Society and Development officer, I might be a bit biased, but I genuinely believe joining a society is the best decision you can make whilst at uni.

2024 Society and Development Officer Vanessa Nongo

Uni is more than just lectures, assessments, and exams, it’s an incredible journey filled with opportunities to grow, connect, and explore.

One of the best ways to enrich your uni experience is by joining a society. No matter what you’re interested in, there’s a society for you. These groups are more than just clubs though. They’re communities that can inspire, empower, and help you thrive.

Here’s how joining a society can impact your time at uni.

📚Academic Societies: Supercharge Your Learning

Academic societies are your gateway to deepening your knowledge and connecting with peers and professionals in your field. They give opportunities for learning outside class, helping you apply your coursework to the real world through workshops, networking events or providing a community for peer support.

Whether you’re part of the STEM Society, Law Society, or Entrepreneurs Society, academic societies are a great way to help your learning and build your career.

🎮Hobbies & Interest Societies: Explore Your Passions

Uni is the perfect time to try something new or start a hobby you’ve always loved. Hobbies and interest societies cater to everything from sports and arts to gaming and gardening.

You’ll develop skills you have a natural talent for, discover new ones, and use them as some time away from the stresses of study or part time work. All whilst making new friends with the same interests.

🎭Media & Performance Societies: Unleash Your Creativity

Do you dream of being on stage, behind a microphone, or working behind the scenes? Media and performance societies give a platform to express yourself and showcase your talent.

Whether it’s acting, singing, DJing, or producing content, these societies help you hone your creativity.

You can even get involved in student productions, radio shows, or podcasting.

📣Political & Campaign Societies: Driving Change

If you’re passionate about making a difference, political and campaign societies provide a space to engage with issues you care about

You can work on campaigns that promote social change, sustainability, equity and inclusion or student rights. Learn more about different political perspectives, challenge your views, and develop critical thinking skills.

📮Liberation & Campaign Societies: Advocate for Equity

Liberation societies provide a platform for marginalized groups to find support, raise awareness, and create change.

Build Community: Connect with students who share similar experiences, creating a safe and supportive space.

Raise Awareness: Advocate for issues like gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, or racial justice through impactful campaigns and events.

Collaborate Across Groups: Work with other societies and communities to amplify your voice and make a lasting impact.

⛪Faith-Based Societies: Explore Your Spirituality

Faith-based societies are communities for students looking to practice their faith, learn about others’ beliefs, or simply find a sense of belonging.

Spiritual Growth: Participate in events, discussions, or services that deepen your understanding of your faith.

Learn From Others: Engage with students from different religions to promote mutual understanding and respect.

Community: These societies provide a strong support system for students navigating university life.

🌎Nationality & Cultural Societies: Celebrate Diversity

University is a melting pot of cultures, and nationality and cultural societies allow you to celebrate your heritage or explore others.

Celebrate Your Culture: Share your traditions, language, and food through events and festivals.

Learn from Others: Engage with students from different backgrounds and broaden your global perspective.

Support Network: For international students, cultural societies can be a home away from home, offering guidance and friendship.

🤔How Societies Help You Beyond University

Beyond connecting others with similar interests and maybe even trying something new, societies equip you with skills that stay with you long after graduation:

Leadership and Organisation: Running a society or organising events sharpens your management and planning skills.

Communication: Participating in debates, performances, or campaigns boosts your confidence and public speaking abilities.

Teamwork: Collaborating with others on projects teaches you how to work effectively in a team, a crucial skill in any career.

Networking: The connections you make through societies often turn into lifelong friendships or professional relationships.

💭Final Thoughts

For many people societies are the main thing that helps them succeed at uni. They help people grow academically, socially, and personally. Whether you’re diving deeper into your field, campaigning for change, or simply trying something new, there’s a society waiting to welcome you.

Explore the range of societies at the union and take the first step towards making your time at Manchester Met unforgettable. The possibilities are endless—join a society today!