From Fresher to Leader: How Student Societies Helped Me Grow at Warwick

The Beginning: A Dream Come True

It all started with an 18-year-old who had just received his results and was overjoyed to see that he had secured a place at Warwick, one of his dream business universities. The next few weeks were filled with excitement—shopping, holidays, and learning how to cook. But suddenly, two months before the university start date, reality set in. I realised that university was more than just academics; it was a place filled with opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Discovering Student Societies

As I started preparing for university life, I began scrolling through every social media platform, researching what Warwick had to offer. That’s when I stumbled upon student societies and clubs. My first instinct was to reach out to people I knew to get a better understanding. I connected with as many Indian seniors as I could, eager to learn how things worked at Warwick.

What I found was overwhelming—there was a society for almost everything! From cultural and professional societies to hobby-based and entrepreneurial ones, the sheer variety was astounding. The warmth and guidance of the Indian student community made me feel welcomed even before I had stepped foot on campus. I built strong connections with them, and before long, I became known among my peers as the “Warwick Encyclopaedia” because of how much I had learned about the university before even arriving.

The Dilemma: Which Societies to Join?

With all the insights I had gathered, I faced a dilemma—how do I decide which societies to join? Each one seemed to offer something valuable, making it difficult to narrow down my choices. To gain clarity, I started reaching out to the core team members of various societies, understanding their structure, objectives, and the opportunities they provided.

When I finally arrived at Warwick, I applied to over 12 societies, hoping to find the right fit. To my surprise, I received three offers from the Indian National Student Association (INSA), Warwick Oxfam Society, and the Graphic Design & Marketing Society. Each role was uniquely different, providing me with exposure to diverse skill sets and departments. Every day, I was learning something new—whether it was marketing, outreach, or event management.

The Challenges of Balancing It All

Joining multiple societies came with its own set of challenges. There were times when society commitments clashed with assignment deadlines, and balancing both felt overwhelming. However, one key lesson that helped me manage it all was the importance of effective communication. I made sure to keep my seniors and team members informed about my academic commitments and any personal challenges I faced. Their support and understanding played a crucial role in helping me juggle my responsibilities successfully.

One of the most important skills I developed through these experiences was time management. I learned how to prioritise tasks, delegate responsibilities, and stay organised, ensuring that neither my studies nor my society roles suffered. While the initial phase was hectic, it taught me resilience and adaptability, skills that have been invaluable in my journey so far.

The Highlight: Hosting a Session at the British Parliament

One of the biggest highlights of my university journey was hosting a session at British Parliament. This event brought together 10 government dignitaries and over 80 Indian student representatives from the top 40 UK universities. The experience of planning, executing, and witnessing such a prestigious event was surreal. It was a defining moment that showcased how student societies could offer life-changing experiences beyond the classroom.
This achievement was made possible by perseverance, determination, and the unwavering support of my seniors and peers. It was a testament to the fact that student societies are not just extracurricular activities but platforms that can shape your leadership, problem-solving, and networking skills.

How These Experiences Helped in My Career

The skills and experiences I gained through student societies became invaluable during internship applications and interviews. Every experience—whether it was planning an event, leading a team, or handling crises—gave me strong examples to discuss in interviews.

By leveraging these learnings, I successfully secured a summer internship at J.P. Morgan, an achievement I would not have imagined when I first started at Warwick. The journey from a fresher, exploring societies to securing an internship at a top firm reinforced my belief that every experience counts.

Advice for Juniors and Peers

To all my juniors and peers, my advice is simple: get involved. Student societies offer more than just a chance to socialise—they provide a platform for skill development, networking, and leadership growth. Regardless of the hardships you face, you can always pave the way to your ultimate destination through hard work and persistence.
Holding a position in a student society might not be your top priority, but one thing is for sure—every experience counts. The skills, networks, and confidence you build along the way will prove invaluable in ways you might not realise now. So, step out of your comfort zone, take on challenges, and make the most of your university journey.

Final Thoughts

Looking back, my decision to actively participate in student societies was one of the best choices I made at Warwick. It not only helped me grow professionally but also gave me unforgettable experiences and lifelong friendships. If you’re just starting your university journey, I encourage you to explore, engage, and embrace all the opportunities that come your way. You never know how these experiences might shape your future.
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