Cambridge offers plenty of opportunities to take a break from your studies by getting involved in clubs and societies.
The university community offers a huge range of outlets for sports, music, theatre, debate, charity work, and other hobbies. Many of these are open to total beginners as well as experienced members. There are also plenty of societies based around a common interest, both academic-related and not. To find out more about what's on offer, check out the Student Union's Societies Directory.
As a student in Cambridge, you also have access to endless exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and other events throughout the year. Check out the University Events Calendar to find out what's on.
Cambridge is also home to various museums, gardens, and galleries, many of which you will have free or discounted access to as a student. Take some time to relax and explore the Fitzwilliam Museum, Botanic Gardens, and many more.
With thanks to:
Jessica (Human, Social, and Political Sciences)
Sean (Computer Science)
Virginia (Classics)
Shameera (English)
There are a multitude of clubs and societies at both college- and university-level. Your college will provide you with lots of information but try to find time in Fresher's Week to engage with both your college and the University Freshers' Fairs to find out more about what is on offer. Clubs and societies will be keen to talk to you and encourage you to take part.
Your motivation to join a club or society can simply be to have some fun, and that's fine! However, once you've settled in, you may also want to contribute to the society by joining its committee. This can be a great way to get more involved and make friends, as well as developing practical skills which could come in handy during your studies and beyond. Depending on what you're interested in, you could learn to manage budgets, run social media, put on events, organise meetings, or take on responsibilties in leadership or outreach.
Of course, you don't have to belong to a club to take a break and enjoy yourself.
Take time to plan events into your week. It is good for your wellbeing to stop work for a while, take on new challenges and make friends from different colleges and departments. If you have a social event in your diary, you can plan your work accordingly. Many students feel more productive knowing that they have a deadline to work to and something to act as a reward for finishing a task.
Familiarise yourself with the websites of theatres, music venues, (indoor and outdoor) swimming pools, bowling alley, cafes and clubs. You can take a walk in the Botanic Gardens or visit one of the many museums, all of which are free to you as a student.
Look at the University map on the Finding your way around Cambridge page to see where they are in the city.
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