Your time at Cambridge isn’t just about academic work – Cambridge will be your home for the duration of your course and it’s important that you have time out from your studies to get involved in all the opportunities the University and city have to offer.
At Cambridge, you can do almost anything at almost any level, from ‘having a go’ to semi-professional. Extra-curricular activities can provide some of the most meaningful experiences you have at University and might even be a springboard for careers or be part of life beyond university too.
Community and charity
There are lots of opportunities for Cambridge students to get involved in community projects, campaigns and charity work. Many national and international charities have student society branches in the University, from Amnesty International to Student Minds, and there are also student groups who work closely with local charities and community organisations.
Drama
Cambridge is renowned for its student-produced drama and famous acting alumni, from Emma Thompson to Richard Ayoade. From the cutting-edge comedy of the Cambridge Footlights to classical plays, popular musicals and original productions, there’s something for everyone.
Auditions are often open to all and there are also opportunities to have a go at directing, producing, set design, lighting, sound, stage management, costume, make-up and front of house, even if you have never done it before.
There are excellent performing arts facilities around Cambridge. In addition to the University’s ADC Theatre, a number of Colleges have their own purpose-built auditoria and several major productions take place in the city’s Corn Exchange and Arts Theatre.
Media
If you’d like to try your hand at journalism, there are various student newspapers and other publications to get involved with, including Varsity, The Cambridge Student and The Tab. As well as CU-TV and the University’s radio station, Cam FM (presented by University members and offering training in many aspects of radio), there are other student groups focused on photography and film-making.
Music
There’s an enormous range of musical societies and student bands catering for any style and level of experience. Many Colleges run open mic nights and numerous bands, choirs and orchestras regularly record and tour nationally and internationally.
The Faculty of Music also offers masterclasses and workshops, and has an extensive collection of instruments which can be used by students (some instruments may be available to hire).
Music groups include:
- a capella groups
- Baroque Ensemble
- Brass Band Society
- Ceilidh Band
- Chamber Orchestra
- Concert Band
- Hip Hop Society
- Jazz Orchestra
- Mixtape Society
- Opera Society
- Rock Society
- Show Choir
- String Ensemble
- Symphony Orchestra
Music Awards
Are you an organist or instrumentalist of a high standard, or do you like to sing? If so, you may like to consider our music awards. The awards vary, but all include a small bursary and professional coaching and/or music lessons. Visit our Music Awards website for more information about the awards available for students joining the University in 2024.
Politics
Cambridge is politically diverse and engaged, so it’s a great place for students to debate local, national and international issues or get involved in student campaigns.
There are numerous political clubs, representing different political parties and many other political societies which host high profile speakers and organise panel discussions on contemporary topics.
There are also lots of student campaign groups which campaign on important political issues, both within the University and at a national level, including Cambridge Defend Education and Cambridge Climate Justice.
Other interests?
As well as those already mentioned there are societies relating to religious and cultural groups, dance, food and drink, games and hobbies, and a range of academic subjects.
The Societies Directory on the Cambridge SU website has a list of all the societies within the University. There are also lots of clubs and societies within the different Colleges. If there isn’t a group or society for your particular passion or interest at the moment, you could start one – all you have to do is find a few like-minded people.