Joining a sports club, society or college committee is a fantastic way to enhance your university experience. Beyond trying new activities, it's a great opportunity to gain new skills and meet new people. For Alex, it was also a chance to give back to the community.
“When I joined the University of York, I never imagined the impact opportunities beyond the lecture hall would have on my time here. I came looking for connection, community, and a way to give back. What I didn’t expect was how much fun I’d have doing it.
“From welcoming hundreds of new students into college life, to running bingo nights for older residents in York, I’ve been drawn to the moments where people feel seen and supported.”
Making a difference
“The Tea and Coffee Society is a volunteer-led project that aims to reduce loneliness among the elderly in York. Joining this society has been one of the most rewarding parts of my time at York. I’ve gained so much from simply spending time with people, listening to their stories, and building friendships across generations.
“Being a part of this society has given me a real sense of purpose outside of my studies, and reminded me how powerful small acts of kindness and connection can be. I’ve also developed confidence in leading sessions, organising events, and creating a welcoming atmosphere – skills that I know will stay with me long after university.”
“When I joined the University of York, I never imagined the impact opportunities beyond the lecture hall would have on my time here. I came looking for connection, community, and a way to give back. What I didn’t expect was how much fun I’d have doing it.
“From welcoming hundreds of new students into college life, to running bingo nights for older residents in York, I’ve been drawn to the moments where people feel seen and supported.”
Making a difference
“The Tea and Coffee Society is a volunteer-led project that aims to reduce loneliness among the elderly in York. Joining this society has been one of the most rewarding parts of my time at York. I’ve gained so much from simply spending time with people, listening to their stories, and building friendships across generations.
“Being a part of this society has given me a real sense of purpose outside of my studies, and reminded me how powerful small acts of kindness and connection can be. I’ve also developed confidence in leading sessions, organising events, and creating a welcoming atmosphere – skills that I know will stay with me long after university.”
Showing the ropes
“I’ve also poured a lot of energy into one of my biggest passions: sailing. As the Beginners and Recreational Officer for the Sailing and Windsurfing Society, I’ve had the privilege of introducing dozens of new students to the sport – many of whom had never set foot in a boat before.
“What I enjoyed most was watching people grow in confidence. A lot of students come to their first session feeling nervous, unsure, or convinced they’ll fall straight in – and by the end, they’re smiling, laughing, and asking when they can get back on the water again.”
Giving back
“York has a college system, and students automatically become a member of one of the 11 colleges. As Head of Community and Wellbeing at David Kato College, I’ve worked closely with the College committee to run inclusive events, provide wellbeing support, and creating spaces where students feel they belong.
“During Welcome Week, I coordinated over 100 volunteers to support nearly 700 new students. It was no small task, but seeing new people settle into our community made every moment worthwhile.
“Everything I’ve been involved in has been about bringing people together and doing good things. That’s what I love most about being a student at York: there are so many opportunities to give back and have fun. You don’t have to be in a formal role to make a difference – you just have to care.”
Alex’s efforts were recognised at York Students’ Union’s 2025 Love York awards, where he won the award for 'Outstanding Contribution to Student Life'.
The awards celebrate the very best of our students, societies and sports clubs.
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