Life-changing skills and friends - University of Birmingham

Student societies are where young people make friends for life, learn vital skills and support both each other and their community.

Students develop their confidence and experience, producing everything from sporting victories to beautiful music.

Recent student projects that have benefitted from alumni support include:

First aid and CPR practice equipment
Literacy clubs run by students in primary schools
Sports societies, including tennis, netball, football and sailing
Stage lighting for student drama, dance and comedy productions
The Grow with Joe Community Garden, a student-led organic food growing project
Recording equipment for online anatomy tutorials, used by more than 27,000 medical students
Coding clubs in schools run by members of WISE (Women in Science and Engineering)

As a student, I found my voice in Birmingham’s student debate society. I stood up for the first time and spoke for what I believe in. Student societies make such a difference, I’ve used the confidence it gave me ever since.
Sandie Okoro, Chancellor and graduate

Your support through Birmingham Gives on 19 and 20 June 2025 could give students skills they will use throughout their lives and be the start of many wonderful friendships.

How you can get involved

Find out more about Birmingham Gives.