From SwiftSoc to SurfSoc, here are some of York’s quirkiest societies

York is known for showcasing the craziest of interests, from Vikings to Harry Potter, so it is no surprise when this embrace of the weird and wonderful extends to university life. Societies are great for meeting like-minded individuals, getting yourself out there and ultimately just adding some spice to your life. If you feel like shaking up your university journey, then here are some of York’s quirkiest and beautifully niche societies.

Swift Society

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A post shared by UoY SwiftSoc ❤️ Est. 2015 (@swiftsoc_uoy)

York’s SwiftSoc , founded in 2015 and awarded YUSU’s Games and Fandom Society of the year in 2021, celebrates everything that makes Taylor Swift the iconic pop princess that she is today. Hosting everything from game nights, album listening parties and even club nights, if you’re a lover (pun intended) of T-Swizzle, this society is Enchanted to meet you.

Let’s not forget when Taylor herself sent merch to UoY’s Swift Soc!

Louis Theroux Society

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*Ridin’ in my Fiat, you really have to see it*.  Meeting (almost) every Thursday, the Louis Theroux Soc is dedicated to the iconic and loveable investigative journalist himself. Recently making a comeback after a hiatus, the Louis Theroux Soc is eager to get back to honoring the British icon and all of his weird weekends.

Surf Society

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Open to all levels of surfers, Surf Soc is York’s hub for anyone wanting to enjoy the sport. Recently hosting trips to ‘Scarbados’, Surf Soc encourages everyone to get involved and also hosts some pretty cool socials, including pub crawls and movie nights.

Northern Society

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New this academic year, Northern Soc is here to spread Northern pride in York.

The president of Northern Society said “The beauty of Northern Society is that we are not constrained by typical societal norms, we are as complex and unique as the Northern culture itself!”.

With regional reps from Merseyside, Lancashire and Yorkshire to name a few, Northern Soc are hosting “Yorkie Yomp” Pub Crawls, Yorkshire Tea Parties and even Yorkshire pudding eating contests! Oh, and they even admirably extend the invitation to Southerners to join – they’re all about Northern appreciation after all!

French Society

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Bonjour, voici la French Society. York’s French Soc celebrates all elements of French culture, from the delicious food to the romantic language. From tutoring opportunities to fun socials like cheese and wine nights and picnics, the French Society is your reason to delete Duolingo.

Psychedelics in Medicine Society

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York’s Psychedelic Soc is an interdisciplinary society focused on providing accurate information on the applications of psychedelics and psychoactive to treat numerous disorders. With psychedelics being increasingly mentioned in relation to medicine and mental health, their aim is to educate on the science and harm reduction of substances. They host academic talks with experts in the field, as well as pub quizzes and a bunch of socials to raise awareness whilst also having fun.

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• Guys, the ACTUAL Taylor Swift has sent merch to York’s Swift Society 
• What your favourite place to get coffee on campus at York says about you