ActivateUTS is introducing you to one of the best parts of uni life – our clubs and societies. Check out our 180+ student clubs and societies at UTS O’Day from 13-14 February, 10am–4pm. Register via the ActivateUTS website to go into the running to win two skydiving experiences for you and a friend!
What’s ‘uni life’, you ask?
Adjusting to a new routine while also trying to make friends can feel a little isolating, but something that makes that a little easier is finding people to support you when uni gets tough. (Here’s something you may not know: our clubs and societies are created and run by students that were, once upon a time, completely new to the UTS student life, too.)
So, here are seven reasons why you should join a club or society:
1. You get to meet and make friends who share the same interests you do
There's a huge variety of clubs and societies at UTS that it’d be close to impossible to find one doesn’t spark an interest. Have a creative spark? Look no further than the UTS Design Society! Or if you're a lover of sustainable fashion, why not try the Fashion Ethics Sustainability Society and join one of their events?
2. It’s a great way to take a break from your studies and participate in social events
Fan of free food? Keep an eye out for the Food Appreciation Society. They run food stalls you don’t want to miss (sausage sizzle lunch or waffles for breakfast anyone?). Off-campus, clubs like Intents are your go-to for weekend trips and roasting marshmallows around a campfire. Or, you could check out EcoSoc if you're up for some hiking and meeting people who love the outdoors.
3. Get physical, in fun ways
If you’re a team player, why not try Oztag or Water Polo to get your sporting fix and get fit, or discover your next hobby and learn to climb with the UTS Bouldering Society. Or if you’re more of a solo type but wouldn’t mind making friends along the way, you can build muscles and lift weights with Barbell UTS. Maybe you’re in need of a creative outlet like esports? The Esports club is a great way for all casual, competitor and professional gamers to unite! Or, the Dance Society is a great way to learn some new moves and exercise at the same time.
Did you know UTS has a long history of sporting success? Team UTS dominates the university intervarsity circuit each year, winning the overall champions title in 2016 and 2017. UTS also supports over 300 up and coming sporting stars via the UTS Elite Athlete Program each year, as they complete their studies.
4. Develop professional experience and build leadership skills (and add it to your resume!)
There’s no better way to impress an employer than to show you’re willing to get involved, work hard and gain skills outside the classroom. Every club has a team of executives that help organise events, look after their social media, manage finances and partake in making sure the club runs smoothly. Getting into one of these positions is a great way to build business experience for your resume. So, if you’re looking at getting into marketing, being the marketing director for a club is a great way to start. There are so many opportunities to get involved and work your way up to an executive position.
Take a look at the Events Society. This would be a great place to start for anyone studying an events or business degree. If you're keen to get involved socially and gain practical experience, keep an eye out for their yearly opportunities to join their exec team.
If you're looking to enhance your skills and boost your confidence, Women in Business can help you gain hands-on experience across various business sectors, ranging from fashion to finance. There’s also the Law Students’ Society, which is great for anyone who’s looking to learn more about the educational, vocational and social needs of law students.
5. Expand your horizons and get some practical experience in areas that are different to what you’re studying
Have an interest in programming? Gain experience in the world of information technology over at ProgSoc or check out the Consulting Club for hands-on experience in offering consulting services to start ups and small businesses (pretty cool, hey?).
6. Develop new interests, hobbies and skills
Always wanted to volunteer but don’t know where to start? How does travelling through regional Australia sound? Over at The Big Lift, you can meet students who are passionate about volunteering. Their trips take you to regional towns where you can lend a helping hand, meet some locals and create real change in small communities (like planting 500 trees or building some train tracks). If you’re an aspiring performer or just love the drama, check out C.R.A.P (Comedy, Revue and Performance Society). Imagine short sketches, songs, dances and a hilariously good time. Trust us, you won’t want to miss their shows.
7. Meet people from other degrees and expand your network
Networking. You’ll hear a lot about this during your time at uni, and what better way to network than to attend fun social events? UTS cultural clubs like the Indian Society or Vietnamese Student Association are great clubs to join if you want to meet other local students from your cultural background.
Want to know more?
Find the clubs or societies that suit you at activateuts.com.au/clubs