Thank you to everyone who took part in our Instagram poll a couple of weeks ago, where we asked you about the activities you like to do on campus. You have given us lots of great ideas, and it’s fantastic to see that you’re making the most of your time at Sussex.

Some of you also told us that you’d like to have a more active role in university life. We hope the list below will inspire you to join some of the societies on campus. With more than 180 to choose from, we’re sure you’ll find something of interest.

Networking within your own School

Many of you mentioned societies related to the degrees you’re studying, such as the Women in Law society, Psychology society, and the Sussex Economics society. This is a great way of making friends and connections among people in the same field of study as you, and you can learn from the experiences of others.

The Debating society deserves a special mention. While it is not linked to a specific degree, it can help you develop important transferable skills, such as critical thinking and public speaking.

Find your cause

Student societies play a vital role in encouraging civic engagement by providing a platform for you to participate in community projects, political advocacy and social justice initiatives.

Here are a few nice examples:

• Brighton & Sussex Marrow organise campaigns to recruit potential stem cell donors to Anthony Nolan’s national registry
• Sussex STAR (Student Action for Refugees) raises awareness about the refugee experience
• Sussex Nightlife runs confidential listening services with trained student volunteers, offering you non-judgmental support.

Three student societies are also driving positive change towards a more sustainable campus:

• The Food Waste Café tackles the pressing issue of food waste by collecting surplus ingredients and turning them into delicious meal, offered on a pay-as-you-feel basis, promoting both environmental consciousness and community support.
• Leave no Trace operates a bi-weekly stall to collect items that the local council doesn’t recycle, promoting responsible waste management.
• Roots manages an allotment on campus, providing students hands-on experience on sustainable agriculture, fostering a deeper connection with nature while promoting locally grown produce.

International at home

We never get tired of talking about how diverse and international our community is. Browse the Students' Union website and you’ll find societies linked to cultures and countries from all over the world.

Many of these societies take part in One World Week, our celebration of the diversity of cultures in our community. The week is run by the Students’ Union in collaboration with the University, and many student societies organise fun events and activities to celebrate their culture and raise awareness about global issues.

One of the main events is Holi, the festival of colours, organised by the South Asian Student society. This year One World Week will take place from Monday 11 March - Sunday 17 March.

Getting fit while making friends

Many of you have told us that you practise sports, from playing lacrosse and tennis to surfing. There are over 40 sports clubs to get involved in at Sussex, from competition level clubs to development and social clubs.

Dancing is also a good way to exercise and have fun, with different styles to choose from, including the Cuban Salsa society, Strictly Sussex and the Swing Dance society. If you prefer being outdoors and spending time with adorable puppies, the Dog Walking society meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for walks through Stanmer Park.

Exploring new hobbies

University is also a time to try new hobbies and activities; it could involve things that you’ve always enjoyed such music, crafts, and boardgames, or it could be something you have never tried before such as snooker or fencing. Perhaps this is your chance to learn how to play chess, start hiking, develop your acting skills with the Drama society and the Sussex Musical Theatre society (SMuTS), or start your own radio programme.

And you, have you joined any societies yet? Check the Students’ Union website and find yours.

(Don't forget you can also log Spirit of Sussex Award points for participating in a society!)