CivSoc are having a terrific year with a new committee eager to get involved as much as possible with both the students and the School.
With a lot of publicity within Freshers Week, the Society soon gained members in preparation for the annual High Viz Bar Crawl. This was highly attended by nearly 75 students from across the years and the popularity of CivSoc was great. Throughout the year, we have continued to hold socials including a curry night in Selly Oak and a trip to the Christmas Market in Birmingham.
With the committee keen to get involved in the department and college as a whole, the committee has attended gatherings for the EPS College Societies where talks of joining up with other societies for socials and charity events were made. We have forged links with JUGS (the Mechanical Engineering Society) and have held a number of joint socials including a pub quiz, STAMINA bar crawl and pub golf. All of these have been a great success with brilliant turn out, especially from the younger years. We even managed to beat all the Mechanical Engineering teams and win the pub quiz – much to JUGS’ disappointment! With whispers of cheating (completely unfounded!),a rematch has been agreed.
The highlight of the first term was the Christmas Meal held at the Country Girl in Selly Oak. This was a sell-out event with both staff and students attending from all years. Members received a three course meal and a glass of Prosecco or non-alcoholic alternative as part of the meal.
Talks with Professor Mark Sterling, the Head of School, led to CivSoc being involved in careers and application events within the School. One of the most popular events was the RESPECT orientated interview presentation and Q&A, which saw over 60 students attend. The event was coordinated by the CivSoc committee and Dr. Jenny Illingsworth, who provided answers to any interview or company-related questions. The University Careers Network also provided some helpful resources. CivSoc is also planning to assist with Applicant Visit Days and future Freshers Week to talk to new and prospective students.
Big news occurred in October: CivSoc formed a football team which has proved to be very popular amongst students – even if the quality of football is not something to be admired! Games are played regularly against members of staff, who are far more talented than anybody expected!
Amongst these games there have been; 1 draw, 2 wins for CivSoc and 1 embarrassing tactical meltdown resulting in an 8-2 defeat. We also have a thriving rivalry with the Mechanical Engineers, who we play in both 6 a-side and 11 a-side matches. Furthermore, the Society has organised a game against the Interserve Construction Team who are working on the new University of Birmingham Sports Centre. CivSoc were winning 2-0 for the majority of the game, but unfortunately collapsed and conceded 4 goals in the final 10 minutes. The results haven’t been glittering, but it’s been an entertaining pastime for everyone involved. Who cares if we haven’t made it to Wembley (yet)?
Best wishes,
Becky Drew, Treasurer, & Chris Redshaw, Social and Sports Secretary