Why You Should Join a Society During Your Year Abroad: Friendship, Travel & Greener Choices

By Lydia, Australian National University, Australia

Going on a year abroad is an incredible opportunity to explore a new country, experience a different culture, and grow as a person. But if you really want to make the most of it, I’ve found that joining a society is one of the best ways to do so. During my time at the Australian National University (ANU), I joined the competitive cheerleading team, and it completely transformed my experience.

Before I joined, I wasn’t sure what to expect as I hadn’t cheered since high school. I thought I’d meet people in classes or at events, but nothing compares to the connections you make in a society where everyone shares a common interest. From the moment I started training, I was welcomed with open arms. My team became more than just a group of people I saw twice a week; they became a second family here. Over time, I made 15+ amazing Aussie friends, and we now train together twice a week, hang out socially, and support each other both on and off the mat. These are friendships that feel solid, lasting, and meaningful. This was something I didn’t expect to find immediately into my year abroad.

Being part of the competitive cheer team also opened doors I never considered. We competed at the AASCF NSW/ACT State Championships in Sydney and came second, which was such an achievement and a proud moment for all the team. However, the experience wasn’t just about competing; it was about travelling, exploring, and creating memories together. We spent the weekend in Sydney as a team alongside the dance girls, visiting iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, and even went on a jet ski excursion along Sydney Harbour, which was so much fun!

What made the experience even more special was the local knowledge my teammates shared with me. A lot of them are from Sydney, so they introduced me to must-try local spots like Fishbowl and Yo-Chi (definitely worth a visit!), and we went shopping together. It was a weekend full of laughter, bonding, and discovering the city in a way I never could have done alone.

Looking ahead, we’re preparing to compete at Nationals next month in Melbourne. The whole team will spend the week together, and I’m already excited about the travel, sightseeing, and more memories we’ll make. Being part of a competitive sports team isn’t just about training or winning, it’s about exploring your host country with friends, creating shared experiences, and forming a community while you’re abroad. It’s truly a win-win situation.

My advice to anyone heading abroad is simple: get involved in anything and everything that sparks your interest. Societies are a perfect way to meet people, try new things, and make your year abroad richer and more fulfilling. Whether it’s sports, arts, volunteering, or cultural societies, joining a group will give you friends, fun, and memories that will last long after your year abroad ends.

Personally, for me, joining cheerleading at ANU turned out to be one of the best decisions of my year abroad. I gained not only incredible friends but unforgettable experiences, travel adventures, and a sense of belonging in a new country. If you’re considering joining a society while abroad, don’t hesitate and take the leap. You definitely won’t regret it.