Refreshers 2021

Refresh yourself
After the winter break, it’s a perfect time to do some stuff that you didn’t get time to do while you were busy in term 1.
Normally we run a Refreshers’ Fair – to re-introduce you to the 350+ clubs and societies on offer. This year, of course, it’s all virtual. But that’s all the more reason to get stuck in, sign up to a society, meet new people, gain new skills and make your uni experience great in 2021.
Scroll down through our virtual Refreshers’ Fair, to see what our societies have to offer and what they’ve been up to. At the bottom of the page, you can see some of the events they’re putting on.
Political and Campaigning
Some of our societies are used to making real political change. If you’re a member of a political party and want to represent them in Leeds, or you’re used to getting out in the streets campaigning on local or global issues, one of these will be for you.
Music and Performance
The University of Leeds is full of musical talent. Play an instrument, sing or just have a desire to get up there on stage, these are the guys who can make it happen for you – go and say hello.
Academic
Each course of study has its own academic society, to help you make friends and share knowledge with the people who are reading the same course books as you. If you’ve not yet gotten to know too many people on your course, this is the perfect way in.
Culture
It’s a global community here at Leeds, with hundreds of different cultures represented. If you’re an international student, you might find your home away from home in one of our Culture societies – or perhaps you just want to find out more about a culture that’s not your own.
Dance
If you’ve got the moves, but nowhere to show them off, get in touch with one of our Dance societies. When our building’s back open, you’ll have access to three huge dance studios, as well as the chance to enter competitions and yearly shows.
Faith
There’s a diverse range of faiths and beliefs across students at the University of Leeds. Find yours below and join other students in your religious community for prayer, discussion and other fun activity.
General Interest
Some interests just can’t be pigeonholed, and that’s what General Interest is for. If there’s something niche that you’d love to get stuck into in 2021, check out these great clubs and socs. Or if you still can’t find what you’re after, remember you can always start your own.
Martial Arts
Martial arts are an ideal way to get fit, learn psychological and physical discipline, and understand more about self-defense. There’s a range of different styles on offer – see what sounds best for you.
Media
Got writing or filmmaking experience? Love to build experience to go into television or radio? We’ve got award-winning media societies that are waiting to hear from you.
Outdoor
Everyone loves the smell of the great outdoors – especially after a long period of being stuck inside. Ring any bells? Jump in a kayak or grab your surfboard and get some extra fresh air in 2021.
Sports
There’s a ton of sports clubs to join. Many play competitively, but you’ll also find plenty that offer a casual match each week if you want to keep fit and have fun.
Volunteering
Volunteering is a super way to gain skills to boost your CV, as well as give back to the community and help local causes in many cases. Many of these societies run extra activities in Student Volunteering Week, so keep an eye out for that too if you’re super keen.
Welfare
More than ever at the moment, health and mental health are hot topics. Many students are passionate about improving local and global health and making change – if you’re the same, lend your support by joining up.
Still not sure?