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.

Read more: what are university societies and how can you join them?
Knit Fast, Die Warm!
- Where: Plymouth University
There's less dying and more knitting, crocheting and yarning at this Plymouth University society. Members can enjoy a range of activities with regular socials and competitions alongside events that live up to the society's exciting name, such as yarn-bombing the campus.
Human-Powered Submarine Society
- Where: University of Southampton
This group of students design, build and test human-powered submarines to take part in international competitions. They've competed at the International Submarine Races for the past six years, and are already gearing up for the 2022 race. You don't have to be a STEM student to get involved, either – this welcoming bunch accepts members of all disciplines to help out.
- Read more: which university is right for you?
Mario Kart Society
- Where: University of York
Nerdsoc
- Where: Univeristy of Birmingham
- Read more: how to pick the right student accommodation
Long Boi Society
- Where: University of York
Not heard of Long Boi? Where have you been?! With over 45,000 followers on Instagram, Long Boi is arguably the UK's most famous living duck. Named for his exceptional height, Long Boi lives on the University of York campus, where he has inspired his own society. Members get together to take walks and feed the local wildlife and waterfowl – including Long Boi himself, of course, because being a social media star is hungry work.
Assassins’ Guild / Society
- Where: Many, including: University of Cambridge, Durham University, University of Sheffield, University of Warwick
Conspiracy Society
- Where: Bangor University
Bath University Curry Club
- Where: University of Bath
Twenty Minute Society
- Where: Newcastle University
Louis Theroux Society
- Where: Cardiff University
As well as getting together to watch screenings of Theroux's documentaries, members can expect regular socials and quiz nights. Question one: which bespectaled broadcaster bagged ninth place in Heat magazine's 2021 secret crush list?