As a Flying start business accounting student, the importance of societies resonates strongly for me.  Whilst achieving this programme put me on an accelerated path, being in a competitive society means having to do more to stand out.  Even within my exclusive course, I wouldn’t be extraordinary in a program of 50 students graduating yearly per university of four, for this program. Hence, societies became a prominent player to stand out.  

Societies have been such a positive experience for me, both as a consumer, as well as on the board. During my first year, I frequently attended arts and craft societies to help me find pockets of peace amidst the stressful semesters.

Throughout these events, re-opening myself to people was eye-opening. Sometimes moving away to university can help you realise the world is not as small as the city you came from. Branching out helps you realise how vast the world is and just how friendly and open people really are. Sometimes, you make friends at these events, and other times you simply enjoy the fleeting experience of someone’s essence for the brief encounter that it is. 

Coming to a university as big as Manchester allows for there to be greater consumer choice. Hundreds of students attend. Each bringing their own creative touch to social life outside of class. Societies vary from niche sports, career guidance, K-pop and international dance, and art. It allows for a chance to invest in hobbies despite being studious and meeting like-minded people at such events. It can be so easy to get lost in studying and not investing time into hobbies, but societies are a reminder that you can still invest in those hobbies and often a lot cheaper.  

Despite being in a finance heavy course, I am part of the board of a crafty society (Get crafty for Charity). Like night and day, I know. When I first shot my shot, it was initially to be unique. Yet it was one of the best learning curve experiences.  Being part of a board is not just a badge you claim and wear. It’s a role with set duties.    

Society bodies are student led with presidents and treasurers and event managers (like me). It’s a fascinating process to be a part of the body and to see the inner workings of the events. Like small businesses with budgets and renting rooms for crafty events, it feels entrepreneurial. It makes you realise sometimes that small business start-ups can be simpler than you think. These roles make you casually implement business knowledge such as working out profits and total costs. Contemplating quality or quantity? Promoting events on social media. They are all business experiences. Accessible through university societies. 

There is so much beauty in the student-led aspect of societies. We get creative freedom. Such as being crafty also for a noble cause of charities. Being able to support those in need whilst also cultivating long lasting momentous occasions. We get to partner with other societies. We get to be more casual and meet each other halfway. If a fellow committee member were unavailable due to timetable clashes, others could meet them halfway  

Needless to say, I would highly recommend joining societies. Get a taste of which ones you may like through fresher’s fairs. Meet new people and be different.  

Written by Zahura Begum, a current BSc Business Accounting student.

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