Societies at Birmingham

University life isn’t just about lectures and deadlines. It’s about experiences, friendships, and discovering new passions. One of the best ways to do that? Societies.

With over 300 societies at the University of Birmingham, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re into sports, gaming, networking, or even something as niche as your love for cheese (yes, there’s a Cheese Society), you’ll always find a place where you belong.

Below are my top three societies:

Computer Science Society (CSS)

As a computer science student, I naturally gravitate towards the Computer Science Society (CSS). But what makes it exciting isn’t just the coding workshops or networking events, it’s how interactive and engaging their events are. CSS hosts a variety of events throughout the year, and you can tell they’re thoroughly planned and well thought out. From game nights to trips, they always find ways to keep things fresh and keep us engaged. One of their biggest highlights? The CSS Ball (featured in the cover pic). At this point, it’s basically a CSS tradition. It’s a night where everyone dresses up, enjoys good food, and celebrates after a long year of grinding.

Another thing I love about CSS is how they collaborate with other societies to create unique experiences. They frequently team up with different groups to put together memorable events, and my personal favorite is the collab with VR Society as the games always feel ridiculously real, and getting to experience different setups and games is always a highlight for me. Whether you’re in it for actual CS knowledge or just curious to try out new things, these collabs make CSS more than just a standard academic society

They have a wonderful community and an extremely supportive discord server, (I usually get my questions answered within seconds, even if it isn’t even about CS!). Not to mention, they even have their own dedicated website where you can view their events & upcoming activities. 

Islamic Society (ISoc)

From a religious aspect, ISoc is one of the most impactful societies on campus. It’s the biggest Muslim society at UoB, and their initiatives are something I truly appreciate.

Right now, during Ramadan, ISoc is hosting free daily iftars for students to break their fast together. It’s heartwarming to see so many people come together, share a meal, and feel that sense of unity, especially when you're far from home and are used to gathering with family and friends. They’ve also been organizing congregational prayers, which is something I deeply value as it was part of my daily life back home, and being able to continue that here makes a huge difference.

One of my favourite events ISoc organizes is Discover Islam Week (DIW). This is a week-long celebration of culture, faith, and community, and it’s open to everyone, regardless of background. The highlight for me is Culture Day which is an incredible experience where you get to try on different traditional outfits from various countries, taste different cuisines, and learn about diverse cultures and traditions. I love getting to experience styles from different regions, try foods I’ve never had before, and learn more about customs from around the world.

ISoc doesn’t just cater to Muslims, it’s an open, welcoming society. They host regular speakers, get-togethers, and picnics, creating a space for meaningful conversations. Whether it’s deep religious talks or casual social events, ISoc brings together like-minded people and helps me stay connected to my faith despite the challenges of university life. It’s that familiar feeling of belonging that makes all the difference when you're living away from family.

North African Society (NAsoc): A home away from home

Cultural societies are a lifeline for international students. For me, NAsoc became my home away from home. Last year, as a first-year student, I was completely new to the city. Like many others, I felt lost. But joining NAsoc changed everything. Meeting fellow North Africans, speaking the same languages, sharing meals, and celebrating traditions made me feel grounded again. It was the closest thing to home I could find on campus.

This year, I took it a step further, I joined the NAsoc committee as the Events Planner. Now, my goal is to create that same welcoming environment for new North African students, just like last year’s committee did for me. We’re working on hosting various events, from games nights to cultural celebrations, and even bringing in North African celebrities to inspire students. It’s all about fostering connections and making sure no one feels alone.

You’ll always find your people, or create your own society

The number of societies at Birmingham is endless (not literally). There’s something for everyone, whether you want to join a sports club, explore a new hobby, or connect with people who share your background and beliefs. And if, for some reason, you don’t find the perfect fit (which is unlikely), you can start your own society. The process is simple, and it’s an amazing way to create a space for something you’re passionate about and gather like minded people. Not to mention, its a great addition to you CV if you’re part of a committee since you’re undertaking a leadership role here.

Joining societies has completely shaped my university experience. It’s not just about keeping busy, it’s about finding your people, making memories, and building a sense of belonging. If you’re at university, don’t miss out. Get involved, explore your options, and make the most of your time here.