Why you should join a society or sports club at SOAS

Make the most of what university life has to offer. The SOAS Students’ Union gives a rundown of why joining a society or sports club is a great way of meeting people, trying something new and developing skills.

Societies and sports clubs at SOAS are student-run groups where you can meet around shared interests, hobbies, and causes. Whether you're passionate about environmental sustainability and human rights or want to connect with others who share your love for music or sport, there's likely a society or club for you. Here's why you should consider joining one: 

Embrace and celebrate different cultures, ideas, and perspectives 

SOAS is renowned for its diverse community, and our societies reflect this. Students here come from all over the world so there is a vibrant array of cultures, languages and ideas on campus. Cultural appreciation and religious groups such as African and Caribbean, Desi, Hindu, Sylheti, Korean, Japanese, Kurdish, and Islamic societies host events year-round. These are a great opportunity to reconnect with home or learn more about other cultures and societies.

Make friends for life

Joining a society can lead to lifelong friendships. You'll meet people who share your passions and values, making connecting and building relationships easier. Joining a sports club also offers a sense of belonging and camaraderie because you'll work together with your teammates to achieve common goals. 

Develop your leadership and organisational skills

Many societies allow members to take on leadership roles, providing valuable experience and training in organising events, managing budgets, and working as part of a team. For example, the Law Society committee organise a popular Boat Party every year, which you could be part of organising to develop new skills.

Stay healthy and de-stress

Sports can be the best stress reliever, especially when essay and exam deadlines loom. Doing it regularly will help decrease tension and improve your overall well-being. Joining a sports club is a fun way to stay active and improve your fitness. A lot of our clubs are open to beginners and have social sessions for you to go along, play a bit of the sport and meet people.

SOAS is renowned for its diverse community, and our societies reflect this...there is a vibrant array of cultures, languages and ideas on campus.

Be curious and try something new

You can join societies for Bangla, Chinese percussion, gardening, origami, pencak silat, a world music choir, and so much more. When else do you get to try out all these hobbies? We have a society for almost everyone. And if you don't see one, you can make one. 

How to get involved in societies and sports clubs at SOAS

You can find the right society or sports club for you by exploring the full list on the Students' Union website. Most societies and sports clubs allow you to join online through the Students' Union website. Many of our societies are free but competitive sports will have a membership fee, but it’s well worth the investment. 

These will also all be at Fresher's Fayre on 29 September, where you can meet the committee and sign up in person via a QR code. You can try out a lot of societies and sports clubs at taster sessions at the beginning of the academic year to get a feel for the groups that are right for you.

So, what are you waiting for? Don't miss out on enriching your SOAS experience – get involved, make friends, and explore your passions through societies and sports clubs at SOAS.