Unleash Your Passions with MQ Clubs and Societies

Editorial Assistant Amy Shelton details some of the excellent opportunities for Macquarie students to explore any and all of their personal interests through campus clubs and societies 

If you’re not already studying your passion, or even if you are, why not let that passion run wild by spending your free time immersed in your passions? Why not also engage with like-minded students who also share that same passion? Macquarie University has a diverse range of societies to suit a wide range of interests. 

If you are creative at heart, you can get involved in the MQ arts scene. The Cinema Society meets regularly for film screenings and events such as bingo nights and picnics. There is also a Discord server to connect with other members. 

The Arts and Crafts Society provides a community built on self-expression and creativity. Recent events include Upcycling and Junk Journaling. 

Writers unite! WritersMQ and, of course, Grapeshot, can provide an outlet for all your creative ideas to come to life. Writers@MQ have a private Facebook page to exchange ideas and develop writing skills together. And for Grapeshot, although spots to be a part of the team have closed for the semester, keep an eye out for openings on our social media pages. Submissions are also always open for both our website and the magazine. Our Instagram shares the most recent submission opening and theme.

There’s also something for those passionate about A Capella, Music, Drama, Musical Theatre, and Photography. 

For those who want to champion change, Macquarie University is a safe space to fight for that change. The Women’s Collective advocates for the rights of women and advancing gender equity. There are also opportunities to connect with other members through social activities, such as their recent Picnic, Painting and Conversation event.

You can also be involved in political and social issues through Effective Altruism, the United Nations Society, and other political groups on campus.

For those who want to keep in touch with their culture, religion or spirituality, there is a diverse selection of cultural groups to join. These groups allow students to connect with individuals with shared experiences and feel supported while at university. 

And for those who feel most alive when moving their bodies, the sports clubs on campus are an outlet to expend this energy. These clubs don’t require you to be an experienced veteran but will allow you to keep active amongst the stressors of student life.

If there isn’t a society that catches your interest, or if you have another passion that you want to share with others, maybe starting a society or club is the right move for you. All you need to do is meet regularly with a group of people on campus. Then, you may want to become an affiliated group. This gives you access to a wider range of facilities and assistance. There are criteria, though. 

You can find more information on the criteria and how to apply to become affiliated on the MQ Society page here https://students.mq.edu.au/uni-life/clubs-societies. 

by Amy Shelton