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How to choose an LSESU society or club

By Halls 15 Jan 2024

Use your heart and your head.

Starting university is an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new experiences, challenges, and opportunities. One of the best ways to make the most of your LSE journey is by joining a society or club. These groups can help you meet new people, develop your skills, and have a blast along the way. However, with countless options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which society or club to join. This guide aims to help you with the tough process of choosing!

Explore your interests and passions

Before diving into the world of university societies and clubs, take some time to reflect on your interests, passions, and hobbies. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? What are you curious about? Are there any skills you want to develop? Identifying your interests is the first step in finding a group that aligns with who you are and what you want.

Research the options

LSE have a wide range of societies and clubs catering to various interests. These can include sports teams, academic societies, arts and culture clubs, volunteering groups, and many more. You can attend freshers' fairs to get an overview of what's available.

Attend taster sessions and meetings

Many societies and clubs host taster sessions or introductory meetings during the first few weeks of the academic year. Attending these sessions is a fantastic way to get a feel for the group's dynamics and see if it's a good fit for you. You'll also have the chance to meet current members and ask questions as many questions as you like.

Consider your goals

Think about what you hope to achieve by joining a society or club. Are you looking to make new friends, enhance your skills, contribute to a cause, or simply have fun? Different groups offer different opportunities, so it's important to align your goals with the group's objectives.

Time/money commitment

Consider how much spare time you will have based on your current commitments when choosing a society or club. Some groups may require significant time and dedication, while others are more relaxed. Be honest with yourself about how much time you can realistically allocate to your chosen activity. Participation in some societies or clubs may come with membership fees or additional costs, such as buying certain equipment or commuting to a certain location. Factor these expenses into your budget and make sure you can afford to join the group you're interested in.

Stay open-minded and flexible

While it's important to consider your interests, don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something completely new. University is a great opportunity to explore new hobbies and interests, and joining a society or club can be a fantastic way to do that. Your interests and goals may evolve during your time at LSE, and that's perfectly normal. Feel free to explore different societies and clubs throughout your academic journey. You can switch or join new groups at any point!