By Tania Monica Zucconi Ruiz, MSc Violence, Conflict and Development
“Whether you want to start ‘thinking bee’, set your sights on higher pastures, or want to learn new and exciting instruments, these societies will offer you everything you have been looking for. “
SOAS is home to numerous diverse societies, specialising in interests ranging from poker to Indonesian martial arts. As such, it can be easy to discover which societies to join throughout the year. To help you maximise your friendships and hobbies at university, here are three societies you may not have heard of, but which may be amazing to join. Whether you want to start ‘thinking bee’, set your sights on higher pastures, or want to learn new and exciting instruments, these societies will offer you everything you have been looking for.
If you want to feel the buzz and ‘bee yourself’…. Join the Beekeeping Society:
Society type: Nature
Want to know the secret life of bees? The Beekeeping Society can help! The SOAS Beekeeping Society has recently acquired new leadership and is warming up to give you knowledge about bees and beekeeping, as well as offering other events such as picnics to try nature’s delights such as fresh honey! They aim to promote the practice of beekeeping, including a beehive that everyone can interact with.
How can I get involved?
Beekeeping Society meets on Tuesday afternoons and welcomes everyone to learn more about sustainability and beekeeping. If you’re looking to get involved in a friendly, environmentally sound society, then the committee will be perfect for you.
Climb to higher places with the Climbing and Mountaineering Society:
Society type: Sport
Have you ever wondered how to build the skills needed to successfully climb or boulder a climbing wall? How to practise climbing a mountain? The SOAS Climbing and Mountaineering Society is your answer. This society has been running for several years, has consistent opportunities to climb and learn, and is beginner-friendly! If you are interested in joining, the society will soon be holding meetings for new committee members, making this a great society to join.
How can I get involved?
The society meets every week to climb at The Castle on Mondays at 4:30 pm. Climbing opportunities are also available on other weekdays.
Chinese Music Ensemble (Silk and Bamboo Society):
Society type: Culture, Music
Interested in traditional Chinese instruments and expanding your musical horizons? In the Chinese music ensemble society, you can gain coveted experience in playing amazing instruments such as the Pipa and the Guzheng. It is also beginner-friendly, meaning you don’t need to be an experienced musician to expand on your passion!
How can I get involved?
Weekly rehearsals are available in room G52 on Fridays from 4-6 pm. There are also different workshops available at diverse times, including workshops from instrumental professionals.
What opportunities are available?
This society offers the opportunity to perform in events both inside and outside SOAS; including SOAS graduations and at different festivals. They have even performed at various events held during the Chinese New Year.
With thanks to Thomas Marco Franco from the Climbing Society, Cherry Butler-Bowdon from the Beekeeping Society, and Ash Hardaker from the Silk and Bamboo Society for their contributions.