What Clubs Can You Join at Uni? A Guide to Getting Involved

Starting university is about more than lectures and coursework — it’s also about finding your people, exploring new interests,

and having some serious fun. One of the best ways to do all of that? Joining clubs and societies.

Whether you’re a total extrovert or a bit shy, sporty or artsy, into gaming or politics — there’s something for everyone. Here's a look at the amazing variety of clubs you can join when you start uni, and why they’re 100% worth it.

Sports Clubs

Whether you’re aiming for varsity-level performance or just want to run around for fun, there are sports clubs for every ability.

• Football 

• Rugby 

• Rowing 

• Netball 

• Dance 

• Cheerleading 

• Ultimate Frisbee 

• Climbing, hiking, swimming, and more!
  
  

Why join? Great for fitness, social life, team spirit, and sometimes even travel to competitions or training camps.

Arts & Performance Societies

Fancy the spotlight? Or love working behind the scenes?

• Drama & theatre 

• Musical theatre 

• Comedy & improv 

• Choirs & a cappella 

• Dance troupes 

• DJ & music production 

• Film-making clubs 
  
  

Why join? Express yourself, meet creative people, and maybe even perform in front of a crowd.

Culture, Faith & Identity Groups

Celebrate who you are - or learn more about others.

• African-Caribbean Society

• LGBTQ+ Society

• Asian Society

• Women in STEM

• Faith groups (Christian Union, Islamic Society, Jewish Society, etc.)
  
  

Why join? A safe space to connect with others who share your background or values - or just to support diversity on campus.

Academic & Career Societies

Yes, these ones actually can help your CV - but they’re fun too!

• Law Society 

• Economics, Politics or History Societies 

• Engineering or Computer Science Clubs 

• Entrepreneurship or Investment Societies 

• Debating or Model UN 
  
  

Why join? Great for networking, skills-building, and landing internships. Plus, guest speakers and trips!

Hobbies, Gaming & Niche Clubs

Whatever you’re into, there’s probably a society for it - and if not, you can start one!

• Book Club 

• Chess Club 

• Dungeons & Dragons 

• Anime & Manga Society 

• Esports or video gaming 

• Baking or Cooking Society 

• Gardening & Sustainability 
  
  

Why join? Bond over shared interests, make friends, and chill out between study sessions.

Volunteering & Charity Groups

Make a difference while meeting like-minded people.

• Fundraising societies 

• Environmental activism 

• Student-led tutoring or mentoring 

• Homeless outreach or food banks 
  
  

Why join? Feel good, do good, and often gain valuable leadership experience.

Social & Nightlife-Based Societies

Some clubs are just about good vibes and good times.

• Cocktail Society 🍸

• Pub Quiz Society 🍻

• Wine & Cheese Society 🧀

• Karaoke Club 🎤
  
  

Why join? Instant fun and a low-pressure way to make new mates.

Freshers' Fair: The Club Shopping Spree

During your first week (Freshers' Week), your uni will host a Freshers’ Fair - basically a massive event where all the clubs and societies set up stalls to sign up new members.

• Go with friends or solo
• Chat to members
• Grab freebies
• Sign up for trial sessions - most are free at first!

 Final Tips

• You can join as many as you like - and drop the ones you don’t vibe with.

• Some clubs have small membership fees, others are free.

• Don’t wait - getting involved early helps you settle in fast.

• If you don’t see something you love? Start your own club!
  
  

 In Summary

University isn’t just about your degree - it’s about who you meet, what you try, and the memories you make. Joining clubs is one of the best ways to throw yourself into student life, find your people, and maybe even discover a passion you didn’t know you had.