So, an important part of freshers is judging which societies are worth signing up to. Every university has a whole range of things you can do, from academic societies like Law Society to more “diverse” ones such as LARPING (we’ll get to what that is later!).
Anyway, this is a time to give something new a try that you haven’t even considered existing before – so why not give it a shot? Freshers or societies fairs are probably the only places where you’ll be invited to try out making your own computer game, dress up in medieval gear and hold mock fights, and pole dance in one room! Here are a few weird and wonderful societies from universities around the UK that you can try a dab hand at.
1. Quidditch
Yes, it does involve running around with sticks between your legs. Yes there is a league, and yes, people do take it seriously. With each “position” up for grabs, Harry Potter fans from all over the UK can become part of the Warwick Whomping Willows, the Bristol Brizzlepuffs, Durhamstrang or one of a whole host of clubs. Supposedly a “mixture of dodgeball and tag rugby”, it’s an effective means of a cardio workout if nothing else.
2. LARPING
This stands for Live Action Role Playing. And it’s probably even weirder than it sounds. This one involves dressing up in medieval gear, including the likes of chainmail, shields and replica swords, and engaging in staged fights. It’s great fun for those with an interest in the period.
3. Pole dance
This society comes will a whole host of prejudice against the girls who are part of the society. But it is not just for girls, and the majority of those judgments are actually incorrect. It’s a great way to improve balance and overall fitness because, unsurprisingly, lifting your entire body up by your arms takes a fair amount of strength. If you want to find a new sport to try out, why not go for something a bit more different?
4. Anime and manga
Interested in learning more about this Japanese craze? Why not try a new form of film or literature – you never know, it may just become your favourite! Even if you do have to adjust to reading in a different direction, hey, it’s a new experience.
All in all, taking up a place in one of these, or a whole plethora of other weird and wonderful societies, can be an incredibly valuable experience. You can learn new skills and meet a whole host of new people.
Do you know of any more university societies which are weird and wonderful? Let us know in the comments below.
Photo: John Loo / Flickr
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