New Things I Tried in Term 1

University usually offers loads of opportunities to try new things, but last year put most of them on pause. When the first term started in October, I had resolved to try some new things this time and not let the opportunities go to waste. I looked through all the societies, volunteering activities and everything else on offer and chose some to have a go at. Here are a few of the new things I tried last term, how I found them and whether I’ve carried on with them in the new year.

Volunteering

First of all, I wanted to do some fun volunteering activities in the community. I signed up to Kenilworth PHAB, a social group for disabled and non-disabled adults. I managed to go along to two meetings last term: a music night and one of the monthly bowling trips. The project leaders were super friendly and helpful, organising transport to and from the activities. Music night was excellent — we had performances from one member and a guest. Meanwhile, everyone had a drink and a chat. It was relaxed and friendly and everyone had a good time. The bowling trip was also fab*, though it did get a little competitive! I’m excited to go on more evenings out with PHAB later in term, when I have fewer assignments to do.

The second volunteering activity I chose was GoodGym. This is a charity where groups meet up weekly, run to a community task, carry out the task and run back. I thought this sounded great as it would also involve exercise and would be a way to meet people outside of the university. I was a little nervous that everyone would be super fit and ultra-virtuous, but it’s actually a lovely, friendly group and we make sure everyone can keep up. The runs are usually less than 5k too. Sessions are usually 5-10 people and tasks are varied. So far, I’ve done litter picks, gardening for other charities, stock-takes (pictured), clothes sorting and more. GoodGym has been really fun and I’ve made quite a few friends, plus got much better at running. I am still going to every session and look forward to it every week!

I also volunteered to be a buddy for a first year student. This was a great scheme as it meant I could give some advice based on what I’ve learned and gave us both someone to talk to about how we were finding the term. We met up a few times for a cup of tea and a chat, plus some pumpkin carving and a cinema trip. I think we both benefitted from the scheme!

Other Activities

There were a couple of other things I tried out in term one. I looked at some of the fitness activities on offer, especially the completely free rock-up-and-play sessions. I was excited to notice trampolining sessions once a week were available, and went along quite a few times last term. This was great fun and although I wasn’t the best, I did improve dramatically. By the end I was able to do swivel hips: jumping into a sit, then jumping up, turning and sitting facing the other way. I definitely recommend checking out the sport activities you can try for free.

I joined the DofE society too. I already have my Bronze and Silver awards from school and had decided not to do Gold, but I changed my mind; it’s a great opportunity to try lots of new things. GoodGym counts as my volunteering and physical activities, but I haven’t started my skill yet. With the society, I have attended a few training sessions for my expedition which will be in the summer. In a couple of weeks we will be going hiking in the Brecon Beacons, which I’m really excited about! I’ll be carrying on with this for at least the rest of the year.

Conclusions

There are so many fantastic opportunities at university to try things you might not be able to again — certainly not so easily. From trying a range of new things last term I’ve found some firm favourites that I’ll keep doing for years to come. So don’t be afraid to give lots a try!

*pun fully intended