Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
My society experience
Social interactions are always important and help us come out of our comfort zone. Discover new things for ourselves and build on those discoveries. A society or club at university does that for us. My name is Cheryl and today I'm going to talk about what joining a society at LBU has been like for me.
The gaming society
When I first moved to Leeds I was overwhelmed by the numerous societies that the university had. I wanted to join all of them, but it wouldn’t be fair to my time or the club if I couldn’t make it to any. Therefore, I had to choose what I liked. I joined the gaming society first as I love video games and play quite a bit. The gaming society is the largest society by far at Leeds Beckett. While the society has a lot of get togethers, I could only attend a few due to my schedule and other commitments. However, I found a community that embraces video gaming and does not judge you for your interests.
Making friends
Any kind of gamer is welcome and sharing gaming knowledge with each other, making friends, playing games and just talking without having to walk on eggshells really makes it a welcoming society. I befriended a few lovely people in this society with similar interests as mine. The familiarity and joy of being able to relate was overwhelming. Never in my life, had I met so many people who liked at least half of the things that I did. They knew what I was talking about. There was no need for me to explain myself. A sizeable gathering of students, from different walks of life. Trying to find a safe space.
Gaming to relax
Immersing myself at times in playing video games is peaceful and relaxing to me. It allows me to think more about the things I have to complete and duties I perform everyday. While it may seem implausible to people, gaming helps me think in various perspectives and gauge the different circumstances. When I saw more than 30 people doing the same thing and having fun while they do it, it made me realise how much joy and togetherness gaming brings. This society is great, and its members are very welcoming. They host get togethers at the Pixel bar almost every weekend. Pixel bar is an arcade bar near the Millennium Square where people can have drinks, food and while they play games for hours. A perfect hub for gamers.
A place for everyone
We play all kinds of games; computer, PS4/5, mobile games, Nintendo switch, etc. What I saw the most that they played at the Pixel bar was Mario Kart, Overwatch, Fortnite and Valorant. But they play a lot more games like The Witcher, GTA, Assassin’s Creed, FIFA, Pokémon, Minecraft, Indie games, horror, The Last of Us, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, etc. One thing I do know for sure is, the gaming society is understanding and non-judgemental. That’s what a society or club is. A space where we can relax, feel comfortable and enjoy our hobbies. Let go off our tensions for a while and spend time with like minded people. Rejuvenate ourselves and continue to tread forward with our adult responsibilities and aspirations.
