How University Students Can Make the Most of Societies

A recent Savanta survey found that 67 % of students—especially those who live at home while studying—did not take part in any societies, clubs or social activities during a term. Respondents who did engage reported that extracurricular involvement helped them manage stress, expand networks and improve employability, underscoring the gap between potential benefits and actual participation.

The Guardian

Graduates and undergraduates alike stress practical steps for newcomers. Dell, a 25-year-old Oxford graduate, recommends joining at least two societies to broaden social circles while acknowledging that students often end up joining more than they can sustain. Izzy Clark, a 20-year-old anthropology student at Aberdeen, suggests trying three or four societies early in the semester before settling into a routine, noting that mid-term entry can be harder.

The Guardian

Radhika, a 22-year-old medicine student at Queen’s University Belfast, advises freshers to attend free taster sessions first, saving money and confirming interest before committing to membership. Martha Page, a 23-year-old Lancaster graduate who is blind and experiences anxiety, recommends joining WhatsApp group chats to meet members online, which can reduce the pressure of in-person introductions.

The Guardian

Alumni also highlight career-related gains. Alex Frost, a 24-year-old history graduate from Edinburgh, says his role on an orchestra committee taught him project-leadership and people-management skills that proved more useful in his prison-service job than academic coursework. Isabella, a 26-year-old film-making graduate from Sussex, notes that serving as social secretary of a cheerleading squad provided leadership experience that strengthened her CV, especially as social-media careers emerged.

The Guardian

Beyond personal growth, participants report that society involvement enhances CVs, even when activities are unrelated to one’s field of study. Skills cited include organizing events, fundraising, coordinating tours and navigating group dynamics—competencies that employers value across sectors.

The Guardian

• “You’ll probably end up joining more societies than you might be able to keep up throughout your time at university and that’s totally normal,” — Dell

The Guardian

• “I had no idea whether or not I would enjoy joining the show choir, as I wasn’t a particularly confident person, but I found that it definitely helped me.” — Remember

The Guardian

• “My main advice is to join WhatsApp group chats and connect with people online first.” — Martha Page

The Guardian

• “I definitely think a lot of student culture revolves around drinking,” — Dell

The Guardian

• 67 % of surveyed students missed out on societies (Savanta survey).

The Guardian

• Recommended engagement: 2–4 societies early in the academic year (based on multiple student testimonies).

The Guardian