Thursday 26-08-2021 - 14:39

 

If you’re coming to Manchester Metropolitan University and you’re not sure what to get involved with at The Union that suits you then don’t worry, this article will help shine a light on that for you.

A lot of students have never heard of a Union before or know what it is, but that’s totally fine. We’re here for all MMU Students – you’re automatically a member of The Union when you become a student (see website account activation).

The most important thing to remember is that there’s also no time limit to join any of our activities at The Union, so don’t worry if you’ve missed Freshers Fair or the first welcome session for a society. Activities are run throughout the academic year, not just in the first term.

If you’re not sure which part of it is for you then take a look at the Opportunities part of our website, it’ll give you more information on what we delve into below.

Did you know we have over 60 societies at The Union and they’re all student-led? There’s no experience needed to join any of them either. There are academic societies that link to a specific course like our Law Society (who won Society of the Year last year). There are also other categories; Campaigning and Liberation, Faith, Hobbies and Interest, Music, Media and Performance, Nationality and Culture, and Political Perspectives.

Still not sure which one is for you? You can check them out on the website, all societies have their own page with links with the best ways to contact them. You can also come along to our Freshers Fair where our societies will have stalls and you can speak to their current committee about what they have planned.

If you’re still not sure if you’ve found the right one for you, you can run your own! We have lots of new societies every year (just ask Poetry, they won Best New Society at our Awards last year). The only requirement is that you need to be current MMU student and have a couple of other students to help you. We have a few societies which are currently in need of a committee this year which you can adopt, or you can create your own.

As well as societies we also have a range of Volunteering at The Union. From running your own project to volunteering in the community with one of our partners, there’s a range of opportunities for everyone.

We also have a partnership with the University Sports department and have over 40 sports clubs. These range from competitive clubs which compete with other Universities, to participation sports where you can play for fun. Not sure if you want to join a club yet? Most of the clubs have trial sessions before you have to purchase memberships, check out the sports website. 

If you want something with less commitment, the University also has an Active Campus timetable where there’s no commitment or fee and you just book your place and turn up for the sport or activity you’re interested in. 

If representation is something you’re looking for then we can also help you with that. We have lots of Student Representation Groups which help drive change. From our International Students Group to our Black Students Group any student can get involved. We also have a dedicated full-time officer team who were elected in by students like you. 

Just remember if you haven’t tried something before then it isn’t a reason not to join. Our clubs and societies have complete beginners as members and are always open to new people joining. University is a great place to meet some friendly faces and trying something new.