How the Accounting and Finance Society made my uni years unforgettable

Clubs and Societies at University

At university, students often have a flexible timetable, which allows them to get involved in the social side of student life. One of the best ways to do this is by joining clubs and societies. These groups allow you to pursue your interests while also building friendships that could last a lifetime.

Societies also encourage students to try new activities they may not have considered before. Because of this, engaging in university life outside the classroom is often seen as just as important as focusing on academics.

How can you join a society or club?

Students can explore more than 350 clubs and societies through the Guild of Students website, where you can also find information about upcoming events. After reading about what each group does and when they meet, you can purchase a membership, which is usually priced reasonably with students in mind. Once you sign up, you become part of that student community.

If you cannot find a group that matches your interests, the university also supports students who want to create their own society. Starting a new group can be a rewarding experience and a great way to bring together students with similar interests.

Will it benefit you?

Many academic departments have their own societies, which give students the opportunity to meet others studying the same subject. This can be particularly helpful when connecting with students in higher years who can share their experiences and offer advice on modules and assessments.

Societies also organise events where students can learn about different career paths related to their course and sometimes meet industry professionals. These opportunities help students build connections, gain insights into potential careers, and feel more connected to the university community.

In addition, sports clubs are available to all ability levels, from beginners to elite athletes, allowing students to stay active, develop their skills, and even compete with other teams.

My experience

As a member of the Accounting and Finance Society, I have received a lot of support. In my first year, I joined their mentorship programme and was paired with a second-year student studying the same course. This gave me the opportunity to ask questions about specific modules and receive advice on how to prepare for assessments. My mentor’s friendly approach made it easy to discuss my concerns, and her guidance helped me feel more confident about my studies, especially when it came to preparation tips for my upcoming exams.

I am also part of the Birmingham Investment and Finance Society. Through this society, I have access to group chats where members discuss investing and share insights about different sectors in finance. I also had the opportunity to attend the networking events with professionals they host, which provide valuable insight into what employers look for in interviews and in the workplace.

Overall, clubs and societies help students expand their knowledge, develop new skills, and meet a wide range of people while doing what they enjoy. That’s why, for me, they play such an essential part in the university experience.