Finding community beyond your course at UoB – Kinvig Society
Discover how joining the Kinvig Geographical Society helped Elodie find her community, make friends across courses, and make the most of her time at Birmingham.
One of the best things about university is that beyond your education there are so many extracurricular activities and societies that you can be a part of. I study criminology and some of my favourite memories have come from joining the Kinvig Geographic Society with my friends who do geography – and I have enjoyed every second of it since freshers’ week in first year. Even though I am obviously not a geography student, I felt so welcome and accepted by everyone, and despite not relating to their assignments, I have grown to make friends across the group, through the society.
Weekly Socials
All Wednesday night socials have to be the best part the week. Every week has a different theme from British icons to Brides & Grooms, everyone commits to the highest level and comes together for an incredible night. It’s so much fun to gather together, play games and then head to the guild for the best night of the week
Training and Campus League
Although it's not just about the nights out. We also have weekly netball training sessions, which are a great way to unwind and play netball in a relaxed and slightly competitive setting. Anyone with any netball ability can join and training generally involves drills, games and matches. We also compete in the Campus League Matches, which adds a bit of friendly competition to the week. Energy is always high and the post-match pub trips are always a treat!
Trips
One of my favourite memories so far has to be our trip to Cadbury's World. It is a brilliant way to bond as a team and properly get to know people across all years. We also have meals out and brunches throughout the year, which are always something to look forward to.
Charity Events
The Kinvig Society also runs several charity events and matches across the year, raising money for a different cause each time. They're always great fun and a lovely way to give something back.
Kinvig Ball
The Kinvig Ball in May is the undisputed highlight of the year. Everyone gets dressed up, enjoys a great meal together, and it becomes the perfect end-of-year celebration to an incredible year. It was the best possible way to round off my first year at the University of Birmingham.