Best Clubs/Societies to Join at Uni to Make Friends
Starting uni can feel like you’ve been dropped into a giant room full of strangers and told to “just make friends.”
Not easy. Not natural. Especially if you're shy, introverted, international, or just not sure where to begin.
But here’s the secret: the fastest, easiest way to build your social circle in uni isn't through classes or random parties — it's through societies.
Whether you're outgoing, awkward, lowkey, or loud, there’s a group for you. And the best part? People actually want to meet new friends in these spaces.
Here’s a breakdown of the best types of societies to join at uni to make real, lasting connections, even if you don’t know anyone yet.
1. Course-Based Societies (Built-In Besties)
Every major usually has its own society — think Law Society, Psychology Society, Engineering Club, etc.
Why it’s great:
You’ll meet people in the same academic struggle boat.
You get access to study groups, textbook swaps, and career events.
It naturally blends social + survival.
Best part? These friends are around all semester, so friendships build over shared experiences. Plus, you'll always have something to talk about.
2. Cultural Societies (Find Your People Instantly)
If you're international, first-gen, or even just curious, cultural societies are pure community gold.
Examples:
African & Caribbean Soc
Chinese Students Association
Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, or Christian student groups
Latin American Soc
European exchange groups (Erasmus-style)
These groups tend to be tight-knit, throw great food-filled events, and offer a sense of home when you're far from yours. It’s one of the easiest places to feel like you belong.
3. Hobby or Creative Societies (Zero Small Talk Required)
These are where friendships happen while doing something fun, which is perfect if you’re not great at jumping into conversations.
Try:
Photography club
Music jam nights
Gaming/anime/e-sports society
Creative writing or open mic clubs
Dance or K-pop groups
Improv or theatre if you’re a little unhinged (in a good way)
The activity gives you an automatic icebreaker, and friendships just form without pressure. Plus, it's easier to hang out regularly when you’re showing up for the same shared interest.
4. Volunteering & Charity Societies (Wholesome Core)
Some of the kindest, most grounded people you’ll meet in uni are in volunteering societies. They do everything from running mental health campaigns to helping local shelters.
Why it’s great:
You bond over doing good things together.
Most people are super welcoming and down-to-earth.
You’ll meet people from different faculties, not just your major.
Bonus: looks amazing on your CV and helps you reset mentally if uni ever gets overwhelming.
5. Sports or Social Fitness Clubs (Instant Camaraderie)
Even if you’re not the sporty type, hear us out: you don’t need to be an athlete to join many fitness or casual sports clubs.
Try:
Social football, basketball, or dodgeball leagues
Yoga or pilates groups
Rock climbing clubs
Running groups with 0-5k challenges
Martial arts (great for discipline and bonding)
These teams usually go to the pub after training. You don’t even have to be good — just show up and give it a try. The shared experience creates fast bonds.
6. Debate & Public Speaking Societies (For Future Leaders or Loudmouths)
If you like talking (or want to get better at it), debate, Model UN, or Toastmasters-style clubs are a great place to meet smart, confident, or chaotic people.
You’ll:
Sharpen your thinking
Learn to argue without rage-quitting
End up in post-event coffee hangouts and pub debates
Even introverts find their voice here — and end up making solid friendships over time.
7. Queer or Identity-Based Societies (Safe Space Energy)
If you’re LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, disabled, or looking for an affirming space, identity-based societies are essential.
They create safe zones for community, support, and celebration. You’ll meet people who get it without explanation. These societies are about being seen, accepted, and uplifted — not just socially, but emotionally too.
Events might include quiet nights, panels, picnics, and sometimes even joint events with other inclusive groups.
8. Faith-Based Societies (Deep Community Vibes)
If faith is a part of your life (or you're exploring it), religious student groups offer connection on a spiritual and personal level.
They’re often warm, welcoming, and focused on real friendships. You don’t have to be super religious to attend — many people join just to find calm and community.
Expect things like:
Weekly discussions or prayer
Potlucks and hangouts
Movie nights or retreats
It’s not about preaching — it’s about support.
9. Entrepreneur & Tech Societies (Where Nerds Become Friends)
If you’re building stuff, coding apps, or dreaming of startups, these societies bring together ambitious (and often sleep-deprived) students from all faculties.
Think:
Entrepreneurship Society
Hackathon or AI club
FinTech or Blockchain groups
You’ll meet future cofounders, pitch side hustles, and get sucked into caffeine-fueled project nights. It’s surprisingly social — just in a geeky, let’s-build-it-together kind of way.
10. Duetoday AI (Okay, Not a Society — But Still a Friend Magnet)
This isn’t a society, but if you're feeling overwhelmed trying to juggle uni life, friends, and studies, Duetoday AI is worth checking out.
It’s an AI-powered notepad that records your lectures, transcribes them into smart study guides, turns YouTube videos into notes, generates PowerPoints, quizzes, flashcards, and even lets you chat with your lectures.
Basically, it saves you hours — so you have more time to show up to societies and actually live your uni life.
Try it free. More time, less stress, better notes. What else do you want?
Final Tips for Joining a Society (Without Making It Weird)
Just show up once. You don’t have to commit. Go to the taster sessions during Freshers or Week 1.
Bring a friend. If you’re scared to go alone, drag your roommate or coursemate with you.
Talk to committee members. They’re used to new faces and are often super friendly.
Don’t wait to be invited. Message the Instagram or join the WhatsApp. Everyone's new at some point.
FAQ
What if I’m really shy?
Join a hobby-based society where you can focus on doing something instead of just talking. Creative and cultural groups are a good starting point.
How do I know if a society is chill or cliquey?
Look at their social media and event photos. If it’s just a bunch of the same faces and no freshers welcome, maybe skip it. Most big societies try to be inclusive.
Should I join a lot or just one or two?
Start wide, then go deep. Try 3–4 in the first month, then stick with 1–2 that feel most fun or natural.
Can I join even after the first semester?
Yes, most societies accept new members year-round. It’s never “too late” to show up.
