When I first arrived in Glasgow for my master's studies, I was full of questions. How would I meet people? Would I find opportunities to build experience outside of lectures? Could I make the most of my time here, both personally and professionally? The answer to all of those questions turned out to be the same: join a student society. 

At the University of Glasgow, there are over 300+ student-led societies affiliated with the Students Representative Council (SRC). Whether your interests lie in culture, current affairs, the environment, gaming, faith, or food, you are bound to find a group that suits you. As I was doing my masters in International Relations, I was naturally drawn to the International Relations society. I joined not only as a member but later became the Postgraduate Representative of the society. This role allowed me to connect with fellow students, plan events, and contribute to a vibrant campus community. 

One of the main reasons I joined the International Relations society was the opportunity to engage with experts and learn from people who share the same passion for global affairs. Through guest lectures hosted by the society on topics like Sustainability in IR, Women in IR, and Scotland on the International Stage, I got the chance to listen from the experts of the field. These lectures gave me a deeper understanding of the issues that matter most in international relations today. We also hosted Careers after IR talk. It was incredibly helpful to hear from university staff and professionals who shared their career journeys and shed light on the various pathways an International Relations degree can open up. 

But University of Glasgow clubs and societies are not all about guest lectures and talks, there is plenty of fun to be had too. At the IR society we also have pub quiz nights and games nights which are some of my favourite events. They are always a great way to relax, have fun, and meet new people outside of the academic setting. Plus, the prizes at these events are always exciting. 

As the representative for the society, movie nights are nother highlight for me. Every semester, we'd vote on a film related to international relations. In the past academic year the society has screened films like Primary Colors, In the Loop, and The Death of Stalin all of which sparked fascinating discussions about politics, power, and governance. One of the most memorable experiences for me was our bake sale where members of the society baked a variety of delicious treats, which we then sold on campus along with promoting the society.

During my time with the society, we also got the opportunity to collaborate with other societies on campus. For instance, working with the Glasgow University Cheese Society for an International Cheese Tasting event was such a unique and enjoyable experience. We also teamed up with the Adam Smith Economics Society to host a guest lecture on International Development and collaborated with the Social and Public Policy Society for a lecture on Policy in International Relations. The collaborations were not only fun but also broadened my perspective on how interconnected various fields are in social sciences. 

All the hard work and dedication put in by members of the International Relations society doesn't go unnoticed. I was incredibly proud when the society was nominated for GU Academic Society of the Year at the SRC Volunteering Clubs and Societies (VCS) Awards 2025. Being part of the International Relations society has truly added so much more depth to my student life than I ever anticipated.

 

First published: 29 April 2025

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