4 Reasons Why You Should Get Involved in Clubs & Socs

Do you believe your time at university should just be spent studying? One of the highlights of many students’ UNE experience is being a member of a club or society. From making life-lasting friendships to enhancing your resume, we’ve put together 4 reasons why YOU should get involved with UNE Clubs & Socs.   

1. Break the ice and make some new friends:  

If you’re a shy or introverted person who struggles with making friends, being around a group of strangers is probably the last thing you’d want to do. But if making friends and building connections is your goal, you might be surprised what the clubs experience can offer you. 

ReachOut Australia suggests that joining an organised group is a great way to fight feelings of loneliness and make new friends.  

Club environments surround you with like-minded people who share your interests. Whether it be enjoying the same sport, hobby, or course of study, these similarities between you and your peers can serve as a great icebreaker. Forming new friendships isn’t so daunting when you know you’ve both got at least one thing in common!  

2. Discover a new interest: 

Ever had a niche interest that you’ve always been curious about but never had the opportunity to explore? UNE’s Clubs & Socs cater to a range of different interests and hobbies.  

For example, ever wanted to try Futsal? Join the UNE Futsal Club and find out what it’s all about. How about traditional Japanese Calligraphy? No worries, join the UNE Japanese Culture Club’s next event and learn the basics!  

If it takes your fancy, give it a whirl. You might find your new favourite hobby in the process. Explore our full range of clubs and societies here.   

3. Build your resume and skillset:  

For the pragmatists among us, actively participating in a club is a great way to build out your resume. Extra-curriculars are just as important as a degree in making your resume stand out, especially if you’ve got limited work experience.  

Joining a club or society’s executive team or committee is a great way to build organisational, teamwork, leadership and event management skills. Soft skills like this are just as important to employers as formal qualifications.  

Is your niche interest not being satisfied with what’s already on offer? Take on the challenge and get a new club off the ground or revamp a pre-loved club. Perfect for the entrepreneurial types. Starting a project and seeing it through to the end is an excellent way to show employers your soft skills in action. Getting a club up and running is an easy way to gain this experience while still studying. 

Additionally, many of our clubs run events that compliment your studies at UNE. From listening to guest speakers with the Zoology Society, hands-on workshops teaching local schools about health with NERCHA to meeting industry professionals with Farming Futures, Clubs & Socs can provide you with unique opportunities related to your studies.  

4. Contribute points toward the New England Award: 

Being a club or society executive member can also net you points towards your New England Award (NEA). Presented to students upon graduation, this award recognises students who’ve embraced the full UNE experience, engaging deeply with the community and building skills necessary for the working world. This award will further help your CV and resume stand out from the sea of applicants. 

So, what are you waiting for? Get involved in a community you’re deeply interested in and make yourself more employable in the process.    

Join in Clubs & Socs and make the most of your university experience. Whether you’re an online or on-campus student, there’s a club for you. Browse our full list of clubs and societies today and join in on the fun! From academic and sporting, to college and social, find your fit at UNE.  

Want more information? Reach out to the Clubs & Socs team on 02 6773 1064 or email clubsandsocieties@une.edu.au.  

Photo Credits: UNE Japanese Culture Club