Selecting the Perfect Student Society: A Guide for New Students
Written by Susrita Chatterjee
Thumbnail & Banner Photo by Jaime Lopes on Unsplash
Starting your college or university journey is a thrilling and transformative moment in your life. It's a time when you not only expand your academic horizons but also enrich your personal life by making new friends and participating in a variety of activities. One of the most impactful ways to achieve this is by joining a student society. Whether you are an international student or a domestic one, choosing the right society can profoundly shape your college experience. In this article, we will explore how to select the perfect student society that aligns with your interests, passions, and aspirations.
The Need for Student Societies
Student societies play a vital role in the vibrant tapestry of campus life. They serve as the connecting threads, bringing together students with shared passions and forming meaningful bonds among peers. These societies offer students a platform to explore their interests, develop skills, and build a sense of community. Student societies span a broad spectrum of interests, from academic and professional to cultural and recreational. Joining the right society can enhance your college experience, help you make friends, and even boost your career prospects.
1. Self-Reflection: Know Thyself
Before you dive into the world of student societies, take a moment for self-reflection. As Socrates once wisely noted, "An unexamined life is not worth living." Understanding your interests, passions, and goals is the first step in selecting the perfect society. Think about the activities that truly excite you. Knowing yourself will make it easier to find a society that resonates with you. Question yourself, what are your short term & long term goals? What career prospect are you looking for? What practice could help you in your academic growth? If you don’t know any of these answers then try out the following processes.
2. Explore Your Interests
"Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do," Steve Jobs famously said. Once you have a better sense of your interests and values, it's time to explore what your college or university has to offer. Most institutions have a wide variety of student societies, so take the time to research and discover what aligns with your passions. Attend society fairs, browse the college website, and talk to your peers or academic advisors for recommendations. Be open to exploring new interests as well; college is an opportunity to try new things.
You can find the list of current active societies at SMU on SMUSA's website:
3.Consider Your Goals
In addition to personal interests, think about your long-term goals. If you have a particular career path in mind, joining a society related to your field of study can provide valuable networking opportunities and professional development. Alternatively, if you want to develop leadership skills, consider joining a student government or leadership-based society. If you are a creative person, try to engage with the Drama Society. Do you have a specific subject interest? SMU has a lot of subject based societies. You are analytical and love to debate? Then SMU Debate Society is the best choice for you.
4. Balance Your Commitments
While joining a student society can be incredibly rewarding, it's important to maintain a balance between your academic commitments and your extracurricular activities. Ensure that the time and effort required by a society fit within your schedule and won't compromise your academic performance. Consider how your participation in a particular society might help you academically. Some societies offer tutoring or study groups that can be beneficial.
5. Attend Meetings and Events
Once you've narrowed down your choices, attend meetings and events of the societies you're interested in. This is an excellent way to get a feel for the society's culture, the enthusiasm of its members, and the types of activities they engage in. It's also a chance to meet people and make connections within the society.
6. Ask Questions
Don't hesitate to ask questions when you attend these meetings and events. Inquire about the society's mission, goals, and the type of activities they organize. Ask current members about their experiences and what they've gained from being a part of the group. This will help you get a sense of whether the society is the right fit for you.
7. Network and Seek Guidance
Engage with your peers and older students who have already experienced the college or university's society culture. They can offer valuable insights and advice. Networking within your institution is a fantastic way to learn about the reputations and experiences of different societies.
8. Consider Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion are important factors to consider when choosing a student society. Look for societies that promote inclusivity and represent a diverse range of backgrounds and perspectives. Such societies often provide a more enriching and supportive environment.
9. Try Multiple Societies
If you're torn between a few societies, there's no harm in trying out a couple of them before committing. Attend a few meetings or events of each and gauge your level of interest and comfort. Ultimately, your decision should be based on where you feel most at home and where you can see yourself growing and contributing.
10. Be Open to Change
College is a time of personal growth and transformation. What you're interested in and passionate about may evolve during your time at the institution. Don't be afraid to change societies if you feel that your interests have shifted. It's essential to choose a society that aligns with your current aspirations and values.
In the quest to select the perfect student society, remember to "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined," as Henry David Thoreau wisely imparts. Whether you are an international student navigating new terrain or a domestic student embracing familiar surroundings, the right student society can be a guiding light in your college journey. So, take the time to explore, reflect, and choose wisely. Your college experience will be richer, more fulfilling, and ultimately more memorable for it.