From Alone to Included: The Power of Campus Clubs
Written by: Bella Kats, 3rd Year Honours BMOS Consumer Behaviour
Photos by: Western Communications
Starting university can feel overwhelming - especially when you are trying to figure out where you fit in. With a large campus and thousands of students, finding your community may feel intimidating at first. One of the easiest and most effective ways to feel connected is by joining a campus club.
Western is home to over 200 student clubs and associations, covering everything from cultural communities and academic interests to wellness, creative hobbies, and niche passions. No matter what you are interested in, there is likely a space on campus where people already share that interest with you. Students can learn more about club opportunities through the USC Clubs page and browse active clubs through the USC Clubs directory, which also explains how to join.
Why Clubs Make Building Friendships Easier
Clubs create connections naturally. Instead of trying to make friends through small talk in lecture halls, you meet people while doing something you already enjoy. Through social events, workshops, meetings, and group activities, shared experiences make conversations easier and friendships feel more natural.
Because everyone joins for similar reasons, connections feel less forced. You already have something in common, which removes much of the pressure that often comes with meeting new people.
Why Clubs Are Great If You’re Shy
If you are shy, meeting people in large social settings can feel overwhelming. Clubs often provide a more comfortable and structured environment that helps take the pressure off initiating conversations.
Group activities, icebreakers, and collaborative events make it easier to connect without needing to be outgoing. You can participate at your own pace while still feeling included. Over time, familiar faces often turn into meaningful friendships.
Top 5 Clubs to Try as a First-Year Mustang
If you are not sure where to start, these types of clubs are especially beginner-friendly. Students who are unsure where to start can also try the USC club matcher tool to find clubs based on their interests.
1. Cultural Clubs
Cultural clubs are some of the most welcoming communities on campus. Many are open to everyone and host food nights, celebrations, and social events that make it easy to connect in a relaxed environment. Many of these clubs also table during Western’s annual Clubs Week in the University Community Centre (UCC), where students can meet representatives and sign up in person.
2. Special Interest or Hobby Clubs
Clubs focused on hobbies such as film, photography, yoga, gaming, or languages give you something to do while socializing. This makes them especially helpful if you are shy, because the activity itself naturally starts conversations. You can filter hobby-based clubs through the USC club search tool to find groups based on your interests.
3. Academic or Program-Based Clubs
These clubs connect students within the same faculty or career path. They often host study sessions, guest speakers, and networking opportunities, allowing you to meet people who understand your academic goals and experiences.
4. Recreational Sport Clubs
If you enjoy being active or want to try a new sport, Recreational Sport Clubs are another great way to get involved on campus. These clubs offer students the opportunity to participate in sports in a fun, social environment, whether you have years of experience or are trying something new. The shared activity can also make meeting people and building friendships feel more natural.
Students can learn more about Recreational Sport Clubs, available sports, and registration through Sport and Recreation Services. Students can also visit the Western Student Recreation Centre during Clubs Week from September 21–25 to learn more and sign up in person, with online signups also available.
5. Volunteering and Advocacy Clubs
These clubs bring students together around shared values and meaningful causes. Working toward a common goal often creates strong connections without the pressure of traditional social settings.
Getting More Involved Over Time
Once you feel comfortable, becoming more involved in a club can deepen your sense of belonging. Taking on a leadership or executive role allows you to build confidence, develop professional skills, and form stronger relationships. It is also a great way to gain experience outside the classroom. Students interested in leadership roles can also look at executive applications posted through WesternLink or club social media pages.
More Than Just Social Life
Campus clubs do more than help you make friends. They help you develop leadership skills, explore interests, connect with upper-year students and alumni, and feel more at home on campus. For many students, clubs become one of the most meaningful parts of their university experience.
You do not need to be outgoing to belong; sometimes, simply showing up is enough. Finding your place at Western can start with just one meeting, one event, or one conversation, and every small step counts.
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