My Experience with Societies at UOB
Joining clubs and societies at UoB was the best thing I did!
Suwaysa Jain
I am originally from India and understand how big of a change it can be to move away from home, but it is all worth it.
My Experience with Societies at UOB
Being a postgraduate student in the UK can be quite intense. The coursework, research, and deadlines often make it difficult to step away and engage in anything outside academics. But when I joined the University of Birmingham, I knew I didn’t want to just limit myself to lectures and libraries—I wanted to connect with people and make the most of this experience.
Since I was new to the country and far from home, I figured joining clubs would be the easiest way to meet others. The challenge, though, was deciding which ones. That’s when I stumbled upon Jainsoc. I hadn’t even known such a society existed, but the moment I found out, I was excited. Meeting the committee and seeing familiar cultural values in a new place made me feel comforted.
Soon after, I joined TheIndianSoc—one of the biggest clubs at UOB. They were so humble and welcoming that it instantly gave me a sense of belonging. It felt like a little piece of home in this big new world. What I appreciated was that many of these societies were free to join, while others charged a very nominal fee, which often came with perks like special discounts for events and food.
UOB has more than 300 societies, each catering to different cultures, interests, and hobbies. No matter where you're from or what you're into, there's always something for you. And every major occasion—be it a festival or a cultural day—is celebrated with great enthusiasm. These student-led celebrations add a vibrant rhythm to campus life and make everyone feel included.
Personally, I’ve had some amazing memories through these societies—game nights, movie screenings, a trip to Leicester, the glamorous Siya Ball, Diwali celebrations, and so much more. They’ve all offered a refreshing break from the academic grind and opened doors to friendships across different courses and backgrounds. Celebrating Holi and Diwali with fellow students who share the same cultural roots felt incredibly heart warming. It reminded me that even though I’m miles away from home, I’m not alone.
One of the standout moments for me was the Leicester trip, which included a visit to a Jain temple. It was peaceful, enlightening, and left all of us with a sense of calm and connection.
Looking back, getting involved with societies has been one of the best parts of my university journey. It’s more than just events—it’s about finding your people, your rhythm, and your place in a new world.