Student societies are a diverse collection of groups and organisations ranging from sports teams to hobby organisations to political and religious groups. They definitely take up a huge portion of the socialisation aspect of the university, but are they truly needed or not? Take my virtual hand and let me guide you through the minefield that the world of societies can be.
University experience depends heavily on what you make of it, and joining a society is one of the main activities you would like to consider early on. City Students’ Union is the place to go!
It is at the heart of City, University of London campus and it exists solely to support the progression and development of each student. They offer an array of opportunities for you to get involved: leadership academy, sports, societies, RAG, and Student Media.
Contrary to the common understanding, the main purposes of student societies are not only to expand your network and create a bubble for you to feel comfortable in. It is for you to feel as you belong, and create a university spirit that you would not find anywhere else. Student societies are inclusive, open-minded, fun and beneficial for your overall development.
They are also a key factor in terms of your employability!
Committing to a responsibility
In order for a society to work smoothly, you need to be good at planning and organisation when finding a venue, negotiating a good deal for your members or advertising the event you are putting up together.
If you are an organiser or officer of your society (there are elections every year and you can even create a society of your own), you will develop experience and expertise in skills, such as time management, decision-making, and research.
Employers want to see that you have had a position of responsibility, and good communication when working in a team.
Desire for more
Even if you do not have the leading role in your society, being a member will act as a proof for your ability to be a proactive well-rounded individual. Participating in an extracurricular activity will present your need to develop and learn outside the usual lecture hours.
Activities, like planning ahead and implementing it, committing to a society, managing budgets and being considerate to everyone’s suggestions for events and meetings, will make your more attractive to an employer.
Being a member of a society is one of the many opportunities the City Students’ Union has to offer. In my mind is the one that you will not only benefit but also take pleasure of it. Participating in societies will not only give you the opportunity to write something more, something different than everybody else in your CV and cover letter, but it will teach you important skills while socialising, going to events and surrounding yourself with people with the same ideals and goals in life.
