Going to university presents an array of opportunities to enrich your experience beyond the classroom. Durham University has a range of societies and clubs, offering you a chance to delve into new passions and even create your own if nothing fits your interests.
Why join a society?
Participating in societies can provide a balance between your studies and leisure time. Here’s why you should consider joining a society:
- Find balance: Engaging in activities you love allows you to strike a balance between academics and personal life. It’s the perfect way to unwind and recharge.
- Form friendships: Societies provide a platform to connect with like-minded individuals who share your interests. These connections can lead to lifelong friendships and a support network during your academic journey.
- Discover new passions: University is a great time to explore new interests. Societies can introduce you to hobbies and passions you may never have considered before.
- Gain skills: Becoming a part of a society can help you refine existing skills and acquire new ones. Leadership opportunities within societies can further enhance your personal and professional development.
How to join societies
At the beginning of each academic year, both your college and the university organise a ‘Freshers’ Fair’. This event serves as a hub where you can explore various societies and clubs, sign up, or gather information about those that pique your interest.
Subject-based societies
If you’re looking to bolster your academic pursuits, subject-based societies offer an avenue to deepen your knowledge and explore your degree content in greater depth. For instance, as a law student, joining the Durham University Women in Law society provided an enriching experience. I served as the Blog/Research Coordinator, where I honed my writing and managerial skills while delving into topics I was passionate about within my degree.
Creating your own society
While Durham University boasts an impressive array of societies, you may discover an unmet need for a particular interest. If that’s the case, consider creating your own society. This was an exciting path I embarked on when I realized there was no university-wide book club. My friend and I founded the Durham Book Club, providing a platform for individuals to discuss book recommendations and engage in group readings. The experience of creating and managing a society not only allowed me to exercise leadership skills but also enabled me to indulge in something I deeply enjoyed.
Sports at Durham
Even if you weren’t particularly sporty in school, Durham offers a welcoming environment. You can choose to join a sports club at either the college or university level. I, for one, joined my college (Trevelyan) cheerleading team. This not only introduced me to a new sport but also fostered lasting friendships with my teammates.
Moreover, I explored trampolining at university level, another sport I had never attempted before. This provided an opportunity to compete against other universities while enjoying regular social events with my teammates.
Overall, Durham University’s diverse spectrum of societies, clubs, and sports teams offers something for everyone, regardless of your background or interests. These extracurricular activities provide a vital outlet for personal growth, skill development, and the formation of lasting connections. So, seize the opportunity to explore, create, and thrive outside the classroom, and make your university experience truly exceptional.
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