Why join a society as an MSc student at Warwick?

Current MSc student, Razaqa Subagyo, details why joining the Warwick Mandarin society has helped build his Warwick community and expand his cultural knowledge.

Finding the Warwick Mandarin Society at one of the stands during the Student Society Fair was the last thing on my mind when I was a fresher. I had been learning Mandarin for about a year before starting my MSc Management of Information Systems and Digital Innovations in the UK, so discovering a society that could support my learning while connecting me with like-minded people truly felt like a dream.

Through the society, I’ve built meaningful friendships, both in Mandarin lesson classes and at the wide range of activities they offer. From hotpot events and Chinese tea tastings to movie nights and social gatherings, there’s always something happening that brings people together in a relaxed and engaging way.

Master’s culture at Warwick

If I had to summarise the society in one sentence, it would be this: it bridges cultures. It connects people who are interested in the Mandarin language and Chinese culture, while also fostering links with the local Chinese community. This unique blend has been incredibly valuable to me, not only socially but academically as well. Being able to communicate more effectively with my Chinese peers during group work has had a noticeable impact on my studies.

Thanks to both the lessons and my interactions within the society, my conversational Chinese has improved significantly. Interestingly, I’ve also picked up slang and everyday expressions that you wouldn’t typically learn in a classroom. Beyond language skills, it has strengthened my friendships, I often invite my Chinese friends to attend society events with me, which has helped deepen those connections.

Another aspect I really appreciate is the society’s schedule. It’s thoughtfully designed to fit around student life. Classes are usually held in the evenings, while social activities take place on weekends, often on Saturdays, making it accessible for students with busy weekday timetables.

My advice to future WBS candidates is simple: find a society that aligns with your interests and passions. If you’re unsure, consider joining one that helps you learn something new or supports your personal and professional goals. The societies at Warwick are incredibly diverse, they’re not just about fun, but also about growth and opportunity.

If you’re still undecided, take advantage of the free trial events offered during the first two weeks of term. It’s a great way to explore different options before committing.

Studying an MSc at WBS

Overall, my experience at WBS has been amazing. It’s not just about achieving academic success; it’s about creating meaningful experiences along the way. Everything feels within reach, shaped by our own choices and supported by the WBS community.

Beyond societies, WBS offers a range of opportunities to get involved. For example, becoming a student ambassador isn’t just about earning money, it’s about sharing your journey through creative platforms and engaging with prospective students. There are also initiatives like one-to-one consultations, day in the life content creation, and many other ways to enrich your time here.

Looking back, joining the Warwick Mandarin Society has been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve made during my studies and one I would highly recommend to anyone looking to make the most of their WBS experience.