For Students

Discover the Best Societies to Join at Queen Mary

Huzzle Author Charlie
Charlie Mart
Founders Associate @Huzzle

Are you a student at Queen Mary University in the vibrant city of London? If so, you're in luck! One of the best ways to make the most of your university experience is by joining societies. These extracurricular groups provide a fantastic opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, develop new skills, and enhance your overall college life. But with so many societies to choose from at Queen Mary, how do you know which ones are the best fit for you? In this article, we will explore the importance of societies, discuss the different options available, offer tips on choosing the right society, and delve into the impact societies can have on your university experience.

Understanding the Importance of Societies in College Life

Before we dive into the various societies at Queen Mary, let's first understand why these groups are so significant. Societies play a vital role in enhancing your social, academic, and personal development throughout your college journey.

Enhancing Social Skills through Societies

Joining a society allows you to meet individuals who share similar interests and passions. Whether you're interested in photography, debate, or volunteering, there's bound to be a society that aligns with your hobbies. By interacting with fellow society members, you'll sharpen your communication and teamwork skills, building connections that can last a lifetime. These relationships can also enrich your social life, ensuring that your time at Queen Mary is not only academically fulfilling but also socially vibrant.

For example, if you join the photography society, you'll have the opportunity to participate in regular photo walks where you can explore different parts of the city while capturing stunning images. These walks not only provide a chance to improve your photography skills but also allow you to bond with fellow photography enthusiasts who share your passion for capturing beautiful moments. Through these shared experiences, you'll develop lasting friendships and create a supportive network within the society.

Academic Growth and Societies

While societies offer an excellent opportunity for socialization, they also contribute to your academic growth. Academic societies at Queen Mary focus on specific subjects, allowing you to deepen your knowledge and interact with students who share your passion for a particular field. Attending lectures, workshops, and events organized by these societies will broaden your understanding, complement your coursework, and potentially open doors to research opportunities or mentorship from seasoned professionals.

For instance, if you're studying computer science, joining the computer science society can provide you with access to guest lectures by industry experts, coding workshops, and networking events. These activities will not only enhance your understanding of computer science concepts but also expose you to the latest trends and developments in the field. Additionally, you'll have the chance to connect with professionals who can offer guidance and support as you navigate your academic and career journey.

Personal Development and Societies

Personal growth is an important aspect of college life, and societies can play a significant role in this area. From leadership positions to organizing fundraising events, societies offer opportunities for personal development that extend beyond the classroom. By taking on various roles and responsibilities within a society, you can enhance your leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills, preparing you for future career prospects.

For example, if you become a committee member of the drama society, you'll have the chance to organize and manage theatrical productions, handle budgets, and collaborate with a diverse team of actors, directors, and technicians. These experiences will not only enhance your organizational and leadership skills but also provide you with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of theater production. Such experiences can be valuable additions to your resume and demonstrate your ability to work in a team and handle responsibilities effectively.

Furthermore, societies often offer workshops and training sessions that focus on personal development areas such as public speaking, time management, and networking skills. These workshops provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to excel in various aspects of your life, both during college and beyond.

Exploring the Different Societies at Queen Mary

Now that we understand the value of joining societies, let's explore the diverse range of options available at Queen Mary. Whether you're interested in academic pursuits, cultural exchanges, artistic expression, or staying active, there's a society for nearly every interest.

Joining a society is not only a great way to pursue your passions but also an opportunity to make lifelong friends and create lasting memories. The vibrant and inclusive society culture at Queen Mary ensures that there is something for everyone.

Academic Societies

For those looking to expand their knowledge in a specific subject area, academic societies are perfect. Joining these societies will give you the opportunity to attend guest lectures, participate in debates, and engage in stimulating discussions with fellow students who share your academic interests. Societies such as the History Society, Debating Society, or Engineering Society offer a platform to deepen your understanding while fostering a sense of community.

Imagine being part of the History Society, where you can delve into the rich tapestry of the past through engaging discussions and interactive workshops. You'll have the chance to explore different historical periods, analyze primary sources, and even go on exciting field trips to historical landmarks. The Debating Society, on the other hand, will sharpen your critical thinking skills as you engage in lively debates on various topics, from politics to philosophy. The Engineering Society will provide you with hands-on experience and the opportunity to collaborate on exciting projects that push the boundaries of innovation.

Cultural and International Societies

Embracing diversity is at the heart of university life, and cultural and international societies provide a space for students to celebrate their heritage while fostering cross-cultural understanding. Society events may include cultural performances, cuisine tastings, language exchanges, and discussions on global issues. The African-Caribbean Society, Euro Society, or Asian Society are just a few examples of the vibrant cultural societies available to students at Queen Mary.

Imagine immersing yourself in the vibrant rhythms and flavors of the African-Caribbean Society, where you can experience the richness of their culture through dance workshops, music performances, and delicious traditional cuisine. The Euro Society, on the other hand, will take you on a journey across Europe, exploring different languages, traditions, and customs. From film screenings to language exchange programs, you'll have the opportunity to broaden your horizons and make friends from all corners of the globe.

Arts and Performance Societies

If you have a creative side itching to be explored, joining an arts or performance society will allow you to unleash your talents. These societies provide a nurturing environment to showcase your artistic abilities and collaborate with fellow creators. From theater to dance, music to literature, the Art Society, Queen Mary Dance Society, or Music Society offer a plethora of opportunities to express yourself artistically and gain practical experience.

Imagine being part of the Art Society, where you can explore different artistic mediums, experiment with various techniques, and showcase your work in exhibitions and galleries. The Queen Mary Dance Society will allow you to express yourself through movement, whether you're a seasoned dancer or a beginner looking to learn. With regular workshops, performances, and social events, you'll be able to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for the arts.

Sports and Fitness Societies

Staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for overall well-being. Queen Mary boasts a range of sports and fitness societies catering to various interests and fitness levels. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or looking to try a new sport, societies such as the Football Club, Yoga Society, or Boxing Club provide a supportive community and regular training sessions that will keep you active throughout your university journey.

Imagine joining the Football Club, where you can showcase your skills on the pitch, compete in friendly matches against other universities, and bond with your teammates over a shared love for the game. The Yoga Society, on the other hand, will help you find balance and inner peace through regular yoga sessions, meditation workshops, and wellness retreats. If you're looking for a more intense workout, the Boxing Club offers a chance to learn self-defense techniques, improve your fitness levels, and participate in thrilling boxing tournaments.

As you can see, the societies at Queen Mary offer a wide range of opportunities for personal and academic growth. Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge, celebrate different cultures, express your creativity, or stay active, joining a society will enrich your university experience and help you make the most of your time at Queen Mary.

How to Choose the Right Society for You

With so many enticing options available, how do you go about selecting the right society for you? Here are a few tips to help you make an informed decision.

Aligning Societies with Your Interests

Consider your hobbies, passions, and goals when choosing a society. Remember that joining a society should be enjoyable and align with your interests. If you have a strong interest in a particular subject, an academic society may be an excellent choice. For example, if you are passionate about literature, you can join a book club society where you can discuss and explore various literary works with like-minded individuals. Similarly, if you want to embrace your culture or explore new ones, a cultural or international society will be the perfect fit. You can immerse yourself in different traditions, cuisines, and languages, broadening your horizons and fostering a sense of global community.

Balancing Societies with Academic Commitments

While societies offer a multitude of benefits, it's important to strike the right balance between extracurricular activities and academic commitments. Ensure that the time requirements of your chosen society do not conflict with your coursework and study schedule. Opt for societies that allow you to thrive academically while still getting involved in extracurricular pursuits. For instance, if you are pursuing a degree in engineering, you can join a robotics society that not only aligns with your academic interests but also provides hands-on experience and networking opportunities in your field of study. This way, you can enhance your knowledge and skills while still excelling in your academic endeavors.

Considering the Time Commitment

Some societies may require a more significant time commitment than others. Assess your availability and determine how much time you can dedicate to your chosen society. If you have a packed schedule, look for societies that offer flexibility in terms of event participation and commitment levels. For example, if you are a part-time student juggling work and studies, you can join a society that organizes weekend activities or has a flexible meeting schedule. This way, you can actively participate without feeling overwhelmed by the time commitment. Additionally, some societies may have shorter-term projects or events that allow you to contribute and engage without a year-long commitment, giving you the freedom to explore different interests and societies throughout your academic journey.

By considering your interests, balancing academic commitments, and evaluating the time commitment, you can choose the right society that not only enhances your college experience but also allows you to grow personally and professionally. Remember, joining a society is not just about being a member; it's about finding a community that shares your passions and values, and where you can make lifelong connections and memories.

Getting Involved in Societies

Now that you've chosen the right society for you, it's time to get involved and make the most of your membership.

Being part of a society is not just about attending meetings and events; it's about immersing yourself in a community of like-minded individuals who share your interests and passions. By actively participating in the society's activities, you can create lasting memories, develop new skills, and form strong connections with fellow members.

How to Join a Society

Joining a society is usually a straightforward process. Most societies hold recruitment events during the start of the academic year, where you can meet current members, learn more about the society, and sign up. These events are great opportunities to get a feel for the society's atmosphere and see if it aligns with your interests.

Keep an eye out for society fairs, social media announcements, and emails from the Student Union for upcoming recruitment events. Attending these events will not only give you a chance to join the society but also to meet new people who share your passion.

Making the Most of Your Society Membership

Once you've joined a society, it's important to make an effort to actively participate in events, workshops, and social gatherings. These activities are designed to enhance your experience and provide you with opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun.

Engage with fellow society members by attending meetings consistently and contributing your ideas and opinions. By actively participating, you'll not only gain valuable insights but also build strong connections within the group. These connections can lead to lifelong friendships and potential collaborations in the future.

Leadership Opportunities in Societies

As you become more involved in your chosen society, you may have the opportunity to take on leadership roles. These positions, such as society president, event coordinator, or committee member, allow you to develop valuable leadership skills, take initiative, and organize meaningful events for your peers.

Stepping up and embracing these leadership opportunities can be a transformative experience. It not only allows you to make a positive impact on the society but also helps you grow personally and professionally. By taking on a leadership role, you'll gain valuable skills in communication, organization, and teamwork, which are highly sought after by employers.

Remember, being part of a society is not just about what you can gain, but also about what you can contribute. By actively participating, engaging with fellow members, and embracing leadership opportunities, you'll not only make the most of your society membership but also leave a lasting impact on the society and its members.

The Impact of Societies on Your University Experience

Now that you're aware of the diverse range of societies and how to make the most of your membership, let's explore the broader impact these societies can have on your university experience.

Societies and Networking Opportunities

Joining societies not only provides you with a sense of community but also expands your network. By engaging with fellow students, attending society events, and interacting with invited guest speakers, you create opportunities for valuable connections. Networking within societies can lead to internships, mentorship, and even job prospects, as you forge relationships with professionals who share your interests or work in your desired field.

Societies and Career Prospects

Being involved in societies can enhance your career prospects in numerous ways. If you're interested in a specific industry or career path, joining a related society can provide valuable insights, industry-specific events, and connections to professionals in the field. Additionally, holding leadership positions within societies showcases your commitment, organizational skills, and ability to work in a team—all attributes highly valued by employers. The experiences gained through societies can help you stand out on your CV and in job interviews.

Societies and Personal Fulfillment

Above all, societies contribute to your personal fulfillment during your university journey. They allow you to explore your passions, make lifelong friends, and create unforgettable memories. By taking part in activities that align with your interests, you'll find joy, purpose, and a sense of belonging that will make your time at Queen Mary truly remarkable.

So, seize the opportunity to join societies at Queen Mary University—they are the gateway to a well-rounded and fulfilling college experience. Explore the diverse options, choose wisely, and embark on a journey of personal growth, academic excellence, and unforgettable memories.

Author:
Charlie Mart
Aspiring business leader driven to change the world through tech⚡️ The late Steve Jobs once said 'the only way to do great work is to love what you do'. Following these wise words, I am currently focused on growing Huzzle so every student can find their dream graduate job 💚
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