Before he went to Northumbria University, Harvey Burn didn’t really think he was cut out for university. “I got in to study sports management through Clearing but didn’t really see myself sticking at it. I thought I’d do a year and then probably leave. But then I joined some sports clubs and those really carried me through – to the point where I stayed on to do a master’s.”
Now fully converted to the university experience, Burn has a master’s degree in international sports management and is vice-president of sport at Northumbria University students’ union.
“When you start, you might only meet the people in your halls of residence or on your course, and you can feel a bit isolated,” says Burn. And while you might hit it off, don’t worry if you don’t. “Joining a club or society helps you find other people with a common interest, and the chances are you’ll get on better with them than with anyone else.”
The fact is that while university is the place you go to get a degree, it’s also where you can meet and mingle with different people from all over the world, and indulge every hobby or interest you can think of.
“There really is something for everyone,” says Isla Symons, who joined the netball club when she started her degree in ocean exploration and surveying at the University of Plymouth. “We have more than 50 sports on offer and 100 societies – we’ve even got a Taylor Swift society. Finding something you enjoy outside your studies is so beneficial. For me, being part of the netball team became the highlight of my university experience. It was a lovely way to have a breather from my course, and it took my uni experience to another level.”
There really is something for everyone …
The sporty student
Sports clubs are a campus staple – providing an outlet for competition, fitness, training and fun for thousands of students. And the good news is that whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’ll be a level to suit you. At Northumbria University, for example, they have “just try” sessions where you can give a new sport a go for six weeks. Alternatively, you can join in on a “just play” basis, which is less competitive and entirely free. “Whatever your standard, there’s a place for you,” says Burn.
At the other end of the scale, most universities have intramural leagues, cup competitions and tournaments, plus opportunities to travel and compete for the elite teams. And with sport comes a major social scene – though don’t be put off if drinking games and strawpedos aren’t your thing. “We’re seeing lots of clubs and societies offer sober socials, too, so that everyone feels included,” says Burn.
The political animal
Whatever your leanings, there are political societies to help sharpen your debating skills, develop your campaigning style and put your activist streak to good use. Many host visiting speakers and hold regular debating competitions, and with students from all over the world, you’ll be able to meet and mobilise around the geopolitical issues that matter to you most.
The entrepreneur
If you’re itching to get your business career under way, look for societies that revolve around entrepreneurship and investment – some even have stocks and shares societies, so you can learn to speculate in the company of other tycoons-in-training.
There are also several student competitions every year, such as the Santander X Entrepreneurship Awards, that offer undergrads a chance to pitch their business ideas and secure equity-free funding.
The bookworm
Every academic department will have a society for students wanting to deepen their understanding of their subject and mix with like-minded enthusiasts. “Our MedSoc [for medicine students] has more than 400 members – it’s one of the biggest,” says Symons, who is vice-president of activities at the University of Plymouth students’ union. Joining gives you a chance to meet students from other years, which can be particularly handy if you need a buddy to help you with some aspect of the coursework. And it’s great to leave uni with a readymade network of friends and contacts who might share similar career plans.
The niche enthusiast
Obsessed with K-pop? Mad about Nintendo Switch? Looking for fellow bubble tea lovers? Then we’re almost certain you’re not alone. University is an unparalleled opportunity to meet fellow enthusiasts and, if there isn’t already a society to match your interest, you can start your own.
“We had two new societies this year – darts and ice skating – and ice skating has quickly become one of our largest groups,” says Burn. “You only need five other interested students to start up.”
The stage star
Regardless of what you’re studying, having a creative outlet is good for the mind, body and spirit. Most universities offer a range of societies that span musical theatre, acting, dance and comedy, whether you want to follow in the footsteps of comedians Ed Gamble and Nish Kumar, who met at Durham University, or handle the stagecraft and technical side.
The volunteer
All universities have raise-and-give groups focused around altruism and local volunteering, but there are also schemes that offer students the opportunity to travel abroad.
“At Northumbria, every year, four students get to spend eight weeks in Zambia over the summer, developing sporting opportunities for communities,” says Burn. Other universities have their own international volunteer projects, focused around wildlife, community building or environmentalism.
“University is a great opportunity to push yourself outside your comfort zone and try something new,” says Symons. “Joining a club or signing up to a trip gives you experiences that will stay with you your whole life.”
For more guidance on the right course for you, check out the Guardian university league tables for 2024. The Guardian league tables for 2025 will be out on 7 September in print and online.
For more helpful advice and student news sent straight to your inbox, sign up to the Guardian’s student newsletter.
