Why International Students Should Join a Society at Lancaster
Moving to another country for university is an exciting experience, but it can also feel overwhelming.
When I first arrived in Lancaster, everything was unfamiliar. I did not know the area, was still adapting to a different culture and had very few friends. Joining a society became an important turning point in my experience. It helped me meet my best friend, discover new interests, improve my English, and become more confident.
What are Societies?
Societies are student-led groups that bring together people with shared interests, identities or goals. Lancaster University Students’ Union supports more than 160 societies, covering areas such as culture, faith, academic subjects, music, performance, media, volunteering, careers and recreational activities.
One of the best things about Lancaster’s societies is their variety. There is something for almost every personality. If you are outgoing and enjoy energetic or interactive activities, you can try dance, performance or recreational sports. If you are more introverted and prefer creativity, strategy or discussion, you can explore societies related to reading, film, gaming or academic subjects.
Societies can also combine different interests. Students who enjoy exercise but do not want the competitive or demanding environment of a sports club can choose a more relaxed recreational activity. Those who want to contribute to the community can join volunteering groups. Cultural and faith societies allow students to connect with their heritage and beliefs, while career-focused groups such as 180 Degrees Consulting provide opportunities for professional development.
Most societies organise regular meetings, workshops, trips and social events. They are generally open to students with different levels of experience, so you do not need to be confident or highly skilled before joining. You can learn more about societies in our Society Rundown article and explore the available groups on our sport clubs and socs pages.
Finding Friendship and a Sense of Belonging
Joining a society gave me a regular and relaxed environment in which to meet people. We already had a shared interest, so it was easier to start conversations and spend time together. Most importantly, I met one of my best friends through a society. Having someone with whom I could attend activities, talk about my experiences and explore university life made Lancaster feel much more like home.
This sense of belonging can be especially valuable for international students. You do not need to wait until you have fully adapted to life in the UK before getting involved. A society can support you while you are still finding your feet and gradually help you build your own community.
Discovering New Interests
I also joined a sports club and enjoyed the experience. However, I personally found it more specialised and physically demanding, as some activities required a stronger foundation or previous experience.
Societies offered me a more accessible way to experiment. I could try something unfamiliar without needing to be good at it from the beginning. This made them an ideal platform for exploring and developing new interests.
Lancaster has many societies based on activities that I had never encountered in my home country. Taking part opened my eyes to different hobbies, cultures and ways of thinking. Even if you are unsure whether a particular activity is right for you, attending a trial session can still be worthwhile. You could discover an interest that you never expected to enjoy.
Developing Language Skills and Confidence
Joining societies also had a positive influence on my personality and language development. When I first arrived in the UK, speaking English in unfamiliar situations could feel intimidating. I sometimes worried about making mistakes or not expressing myself clearly.
Society activities gave me regular opportunities to use English in natural, low-pressure situations. Instead of speaking only during lectures or formal academic discussions, I could practise through casual conversations, group activities and social events.
Over time, I became more comfortable expressing my ideas, starting conversations and communicating with people from different backgrounds. I also became more willing to step outside my comfort zone. Improving a language is not only about learning grammar and vocabulary; it is also about building the confidence to communicate.
Building Skills and Broadening Your Horizons
Societies can help support your personal and professional development.
By attending activities, working with other members and taking on responsibilities, I developed skills in communication, teamwork and organisation. These experiences improved my CV and gave me useful examples to discuss in applications and interviews.
Career and academic societies can introduce students to industries, practical projects and professional networks. Volunteering groups provide opportunities to contribute to the local community, while cultural and faith societies encourage students to exchange ideas and understand different perspectives. Creative and student media groups, such as Bailrigg FM and SCAN, can help members develop skills in writing, broadcasting and communication.
For me, these experiences broadened my horizons. They introduced me to people, opportunities and perspectives that I might never have discovered on my own. Joining a society was not simply an extracurricular decision; it became an important part of my social, personal and professional development.
For international students beginning their journey at Lancaster, my advice is simple: give societies a try. You do not need to join every group or make a long-term commitment straight away. Attend a few introductory events, speak to current members and find a community that feels right for you.
Whether you want to make friends, try a new activity, stay connected to your culture, improve your English, volunteer or prepare for your career, there is likely to be a society that suits you. One small decision to attend an event could lead to a new interest, greater confidence and even a lifelong friendship.
Written by Yueyi Wang
INTERNATIONAL PHD STUDENT