Ah, Freshers’ Week: a time for freebies, new experiences and signing up to societies that speak to the inner students. How was it for you?

Chances are you’ve already signed up for your extracurricular activities already, but if you’ve a little spare time, maybe we can tempt you to add another.

Lovers of cuddly toys at the University of St Andrews can join its Teddy Bear Hospital society. Now, before you settle on a mental pictures of students tucked up in bed with their “friends from home”, we should put you straight. This society’s members are volunteers who attend local schools to teach children about healthy living, and seeking advice for health matters, through interactive games and activities. Or maybe you’d prefer to celebrate all things Doctor Who at DocSoc, where you’re guaranteed snacks and regular viewings of episodes from across the 840 the BBC has produced since 1963.

Kent’s university (UKC), in Canterbury, runs a circus group, welcoming “creative characters from all disciplines as well as those looking for a new discipline” to take part in workshops and performances, practicing and skill sharing. Fire dancing (possibly) mandatory. If you prefer to participate in less extreme dance, then you won’t be disappointed here: belly, burlesque, salsa and swing societies are also available.

The University of Manchester has more than 400 societies to choose from, and if there’s nothing to tempt you, you can always start your own. Its Natural Hair Society (NHS) will help you understand everything you need to know about and truly appreciate natural hair, how to look after it, and raise awareness about natural hair in the business world. Alternatively, you might like to join the Warped society which aims to provide “an environment that promotes fun discussion of SciFi & Fantasy“.

UCL has a Harry Potter society “open to everyone” and caters for the entire alcohol/teetotal spectrum with the Mixology society for anyone who loves drinks and cocktails, or the Tea Society for those that don’t. Ultimate Frisbee and water polo are just two of the sports offerings here.

LSE’s society Speculative Fiction and Table Top Games has around 500 Facebook members, but its Nordic society wins new members with its pitch “We used to take your land. Now we just take your pints.

Societies are a great way to get the most out of your time at university, as well as a great way to find new friends over a shared interest. And apparently there really is something for everyone.