The best thing about university has to be the other stuff to do in between a pretty flexible (and for first year at least, minimal) academic work schedule. At no other time in your life are you likely to be exposed to so many random and varied ‘things’. Fly fishing is great fun, there can be some interesting debates at the Arab and Asian Affairs, Scandinavian soc play hard whilst Real Ale Society is a refreshing educational experience after some hardcore knitting, juggling or creative writing (or canoeing, rock climbing, mountaineering and skiing). And don’t even think I’ve scratched the surface, these may be words on a page but it’s quite something to behold at Fresher’s Fayre.

University affiliated societies are a big deal, all brought together in the body of the Student’s Union, of which every matriculated student is a member. I believe, or at least it seems to be the common belief up here, that St Andrews has more societies than any other university (about 125), which is quite impressive when you consider places like Manchester and Leeds are many times the size of us. Another reason why you’ve probably made the right choice. Any student is welcome to become a member of any university affiliated society whatsoever, though there is usually a fee to join and some charge for their events. The many plays of Edinburgh Fringe quality are certainly worth it.

Here’s some info on societies, the Union (= Student’s Association) and, key to St. Andrews, theatre.