One of the things I appreciate most about Durham University is how deeply it encourages students to live a balanced, fulfilling life outside the classroom. As an international student, I arrived in the UK with excitement — but also a fear that I might have to pause the hobbies and passions that had shaped me back home.
To my surprise (and relief!), Durham offers an incredible range of societies that not only allow you to try completely new experiences but also help you continue the passions you already love. From sports to arts, wellbeing to cultural groups, there truly is something for everyone.
Here are the societies that shaped my year and helped me feel at home in a new country.
Aerial Arts Society
Back in Thailand, aerial arts were my main hobby. When I moved to the UK for my master’s degree, I was honestly afraid I would have to stop doing what I love. So discovering the Aerial Arts Society at Durham felt like a personal victory.
Being able to continue aerial hoop and silk after class is something I consider a privilege — not many universities in the UK offer such a unique opportunity. The sessions are fun, safe, and supportive, and the society has become a place where I feel most like myself.
Equestrian Society
Another passion of mine is horse riding, and I was thrilled to find out that Durham has an active Equestrian Society offering lessons for all levels — beginner, intermediate, and advanced.
The riding schools are not far from the city centre, and the experience goes far beyond riding itself. I’ve been able to connect with new friends, including local riders, and it’s been a refreshing way to explore life outside the university bubble.
Meditation Society
With postgraduate life being fast-paced and sometimes overwhelming, joining the Meditation Society has been one of the best decisions I made.
The sessions help me slow down, breathe, and maintain my mental well-being. It’s also a society I never saw offered back home, which makes it even more special. It reminds me that taking care of the mind is just as important as taking care of academic work.
Castle Yoga Society
Living at University College (Castle) comes with some truly magical experiences, and one of them is the Castle Yoga Society.
Practising yoga inside a historic castle still feels surreal. The sessions improve both mental and physical health, and the calm atmosphere inside the Castle makes each practice feel grounding and peaceful. It’s a weekly reset that I always look forward to.
Castle’s Intersectional Feminism Society
Another society that I genuinely appreciate is the Intersectional Feminism Society at University College. They organise workshops, discussions, and creative sessions that raise awareness and empower women.
Some of my favourite events include painting nights and movie screenings such as Hidden Figures and Becoming. These gatherings not only educate but also create a safe, inspiring space to connect with other women and share stories and perspectives
Thai Society – a piece of home in Durham
No matter how exciting life abroad is, homesickness is real. That’s why joining the Thai Society meant so much to me.
It’s comforting to meet people who understand your culture, language, and experiences — people who “get it.” We share food, celebrations, struggles, and laughter.
And what’s lovely is that cultural societies at Durham welcome everyone. Thai Society, Hong Kong Society, Japanese Society, and many more all encourage students from other nationalities to join, making it a wonderful way to exchange cultures and broaden perspectives.
Final thoughts – the power of community at Durham
If there is one thing I’ve learned, it’s that societies are the heart of Durham student life. Whether you want to try something completely new, continue a long-held passion, or find comfort in cultural familiarity, there is always a society waiting for you.
For international students especially, societies are where friendships form, where community grows, and where Durham starts feeling like home.
So, to anyone joining Durham soon:
Be curious. Sign up for the taster sessions. Explore everything. You might surprise yourself with what becomes the highlight of your week.
Discover more
Take a look at the clubs and societies from the Durham Student Union
Create your own personalised prospectus here.
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