10 unusual university societies
Eager to get stuck into student life at university? Joining a society is a good way of meeting new people, trying something new or expanding your skills and interests.

Plus, see our round-up of top-rated student unions for nightlife, as voted for by uni students.
Mario Kart Society
- Where: University of Essex
Nerdfighters Society
This inquisitively-titled society describes a nerdfighter as ‘someone who wants to help break the negative nerd stereotype, who is willing to fight for good causes and someone who’s not composed of cells and tissue, but instead made entirely of awesome.’ The Nerdfighters seem like a close-knit bunch and have twice-weekly meet-ups in addition to monthly movie marathons.Assassins’ Guild / Society
Members of this society take part in games of mock assassination in which players are assigned targets to hunt down and eliminate with fake weapons such as water pistols and rubber chickens – that’s right…rubber chickens. As well as being assassins, each player is also a target, making stealth and suspicion essential. Long games run for around four weeks, whilst short games can last up to several hours.Viking Society
- Where: Plymouth University
Kigu Society
- Where: University of York
The Sheila and her Dog Society
- Where: University of Cambridge
During their weekly meets, the society likes to drink cocoa and eat cake as they read children’s stories in silly voices. And if you're wondering, we’re not really sure who Sheila or her dog are, either.
Curry Appreciation Society
These societies give students the chance to meet new people and indulge in curry at discount prices across their respective cities. Additionally, members meet termly for sit-down meals to discuss their mutual appreciation for the cuisine.Twenty Minute Society
- Where: University of Birmingham, Lancaster University, University of Lincoln, Newcastle University, University of Huddersfield
Points are tallied to whoever gets there in time and by the end of each semester prizes go to those who have collected the most points. Twenty Minute Societies have taken universities by storm – who would have thought students liked an unexpected wake-up call?
Competitive Eating Society
- Where: University of Kent
The Keele Society of Gentlemanly Pursuits
- Where: Keele University