How can I get more involved at uni?

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.

I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

Reply 1

Kingston Grace

Official Rep

Original post

by ambiguus

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.
I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

Hi @ambiguus

It's great that you are looking to make the most of your time at uni!

Which university do you go to? Maybe they can give you ideas of what there is to do in the area.

I would agree with the previous post that societies and looking for events are a great way to go.

For me even just my part-time work as a student ambassador makes me feel more involved as I have met lots of students and gained valuable skills.

I have a few posts about what I get up to that might give you some inspiration
Days and Nights Out as a Kingston Student - The Student Room
Things to do over reading/enrichment week - The Student Room

Student Organised Events Happening at Kingston University - The Student Room

I hope this helps :smile:

-Grace (Kingston Rep)

Reply 2

Lillian Falmouth

Official Rep

Hi @ambiguus,

I'd highly recommend having a look at what clubs and societies your uni has to offer. It's a great way to make new friends by going to sessions and socials! In my experience, joining societies has helped me feel much more involved in university life and helped me meet new people and made me feel more connected to the local community aswell.

Reply 3

Kingston Eve

Official Rep

Original post

by ambiguus

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.
I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

Hey @ambiguus,

Some really great tips above. To add to that, I'd recommend checking out your Students' Union to see if there's any upcoming events arranged by them. Some unions also advertise local volunteering roles which might be of interest.

Make sure to also read your student emails - there's often a lot of interesting opportunities delivered straight to your inbox that go unnoticed because students don't read the newsletters the university sends out. 😁

Hope this helps and well done for wanting to get more involved on campus!
Eve (Kingston Rep).

Reply 4

ARU Graduate

Official Rep

Original post

by ambiguus

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.
I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

Hey!

Honestly… you’re not alone at all. That first semester adjustment is hard, especially when you’re juggling uni, assignments and work. It can genuinely feel like all you’ve done is survive rather than actually experience uni, so please don’t beat yourself up!

Getting used to balancing everything takes time. One thing that genuinely changed my life at uni was getting a diary (or using a planner/calendar) and actually scheduling everything… not just lectures and deadlines, but downtime for myself and social time too. I used to block out things like rest evening, coffee with someone from class, or even just do nothing and recharge. It sounds silly, but once I treated those things as just as important as assignments, I actually started enjoying uni instead of constantly feeling behind.

In terms of getting more involved, societies are such a good place to start. You don’t have to commit to loads… even just joining one or two that genuinely interest you can make a huge difference. Most societies are really relaxed, and lots of people turn up alone, so you won’t be the odd one out. Even going once is a win.

Talking to people in class helps more than you realise too. Small things like sitting next to someone new, asking how they found an assignment, or suggesting a coffee after a lecture can naturally turn into friendships. I had to push myself a bit out of my comfort zone at first, but I’m so glad I did… everyone else is usually just as nervous and hoping someone else makes the first move.

If you’re working alongside uni, be kind to yourself as well. You’re already doing a lot. Maybe start small… one society event this month, one social plan a week, one afternoon where uni isn’t allowed to take over. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

Also, remember that uni isn’t just nights out and big social events. Making the most of it can be as simple as feeling more connected, having people to sit with in lectures, or having one or two friends who make it feel less overwhelming.

You’re doing better than you think, honestly. First semester is about finding your feet… the fun and balance usually come once you stop just surviving and start giving yourself permission to actually live a bit too. You’ve got plenty of time!

Good luck. Sophie 🙂

Reply 5

LJMUStudentReps

Official Rep

Original post

by ambiguus

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.
I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

Hi,

That’s completely understandable , assignments and work can easily take over, especially in first semester, so don’t be too hard on yourself you’re doing really well!

If you’re looking to get more involved, you could try joining societies related to your course, interests, or sports, as they’re a great way to meet people and get more out of university life. Your university careers team can also support you with advice, there may be part-time opportunities on campus, and volunteering. Joining social events when you can is another good way to ease into things.

Hope this helps,

Tayba
Student Rep

Reply 6

UoW Jasmine

Official Rep

Original post

by ambiguus

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.
I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

Hi!

It’s super common to spend the first term just adjusting to uni life, so definitely don’t stress about not doing much so far.

You could start by checking out some societies - most unis have a huge range, from academic and career ones to cultural societies or specific hobbies/interests. In my experience most are very open about people joining mid-year, and it’s totally fine to try a few and see what you like! Going to an event with a friend can help ease the pressure.
Volunteering is also a great way to meet new people and do something meaningful. Many universities have short-term or low-commitment opportunities, which are perfect if you’re also balancing work and assignments.

You might also look at your SU or accommodation - they might run events, fairs, games nights etc that are also easy ways to get involved. If you’re into being active, sports taster sessions are another way to try something new and meet people. Even just exploring campus more or checking out nearby towns, local cafés, or restaurants can help you feel more connected to where you are.

Hope that gives you a few ideas!

Best wishes,
Jasmine (Student Ambassador)

Reply 7

EssexStudentRep

Official Rep

Original post

by ambiguus

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.
I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

Hi @ambiguus👋

Hope you are well. That is a common though most people have. I would strongly recommend talking to your personal tutor about this as they will have all the information. Look on your university website too specifically your course page as they may highlight opportunities to get involved in. There are also volunteering opportunities, internships, part time jobs, research opportunities to hear about. The best way is to even visit your student centre and ask for more information and they can direct you.

Essex Student Rep- Lavanya 💜

Reply 8

LSBU

Official Rep

Original post

by ambiguus

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.
I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

Hi there, It’s completely normal at this stage to feel like your time has been dominated by assignments, commuting, and work.

Getting involved with extracurricular clubs or societies not only makes your time at university more enjoyable, it also helps develop skills that matter after graduation, confidence, teamwork, organisation, communication and networking. Even if you’re juggling work and study, there are lots of flexible ways to participate, from attending occasional events to taking on project roles or becoming a student ambassador yourself. Many of these experiences are excellent to include on your CV and can give you a competitive edge when applying for internships and jobs.

In addition, taking part in volunteering, attending talks and exhibitions or exploring professional networks in your field can broaden your horizons, help you feel more connected to your city and build valuable experience that complements your studies.

Remember, university is about more than deadlines and work. Taking the time to explore and engage in a few activities you care about can make your experience much richer, more enjoyable and more meaningful.

You are always welcome to explore LSBU and get a real feel for what student life is like here. We have a Southwark open day: Saturday 7th February 2026 where you can hear more about our courses and support. If you would prefer to see the campus in person you can book a tour https://www.lsbu.ac.uk/study/study-at-lsbu/open-days on a day that suits you and get a sense of the spaces you would be studying in. You can also chat to our current students https://www.lsbu.ac.uk/student-life/chat to hear honest experiences and get answers to any course questions you might have.

LSBU Admissions Ambassador

Reply 9

Adz2042

Original post

by ambiguus

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.
I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

You've had a lot of suggestions here from student representatives in their unions, and others too.
I'd have a look at what societies exist at your university, then rock up at the student union, and ask about joining one, or a few.
Make sure it aligns to fit your study / home / social / personal lifestyle, and then you'll be more involved, maybe even become the president of the society for other future students.

Reply 10

hallamstudents

Official Rep

Original post

by ambiguus

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.
I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

Hi!

I just thought I could add onto things people have said to show my favourite things to do at uni to get involved. Some are the same as what has already been said but it just shows that they are great to join!

•

Joining societies is a great way of getting involved in things and meeting lots of new people too. Have a look and see what societies your uni has on offer for students and see if there are any that you would like to join.

•

See if your uni puts any events on as these are also good ways to get involved and do fun things too. They are fun and I have always had fun when I have joined them so it is worth looking.

•

Joining in on course events is a good idea too as there are often course talks and networking events where you can meet people and put yourself out there a bit too.

•

See if there are any opportunities to do some volunteering too as these are good opportunities and also something good to have on your CV/to do in general.

•

See if your halls puts any events on too as these are good ways to meet people in your halls that you otherwise would not have met!

I hope some of this helps,

Lucy -SHU student ambassador.

Reply 11

Malak - UOS

Official Rep

Hello,

it’s completely normal to feel that way after your first semester, and it’s great that you’re looking to get more involved.

A really good place to start is by exploring societies and clubs at your Students’ Union. There’s usually something for everyone—whether it’s course-related, sports, arts, or just social—and it’s a fantastic way to meet people with similar interests and hopefully fill in your free time with meaningful activities.

You could also consider becoming a Student Rep for your course. It’s a meaningful way to engage with your department, represent your peers, and gain useful experience. Plus, it often doesn’t require a huge time commitment.

Don’t forget to check out events run by your Students’ Union. A way to stay updated is to follow your SU and university’s official social media pages where they regularly post about what’s happening on campus.

Getting involved doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with one thing that feels right for you, and take it from there. You’ve got this!

Malak

Reply 12

Manchester Met - Student Rep

Official Rep

Original post

by ambiguus

I’ve just completed the first semester and I feel like I haven’t done anything except do my assignments and go to work.
I want to make the most of my time here but I don’t know how to get more involved or what to do. Any suggestions?

Hey @ambiguus ,

That's a great question. In my experience. I commute, and I’ve had to be really intentional about finding ways to get involved so I don't feel like I'm just passing through.

Here are a few ways to branch out:

•

Become a Student Ambassador: This has been the best move for me! You get to help out at Open Days, speak with parents and prospective students about your course, and even work as a Clearing Advisor during the summer. It’s paid work, but it’s also very social and makes you feel part of the uni team.

•

Join a Society (Even Now!): People often think you can only join in September, but most societies are happy to take new members year-round. Whether it’s a hobby, a sport, or something course-related, it’s the quickest way to meet people who aren't just in your course or accommodation.

•

Course Representative: If you want to stay academic but get more involved, check if your course needs a rep. You’ll attend meetings and represent your classmates' views to the faculty, which is great for your CV.

My best advice is to pick just one new thing to try this month. You don't have to overhaul your whole schedule; just one society event or one ambassador shift can totally change your perspective on uni life!
I hope that gives you some ideas to start with! 😊

Rachel
(Third Year)
Undergraduate Multimedia Journalism

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