Get involved in the University Community

Studying and attending classes is important while at university, but it can also be a rewarding experience to get involved in the community at Heriot-Watt. There are a variety of ways you can get involved in sports, societies, or other activities, and meet new people. We have listed a few of these below.

Wellbeing Activities

There is a full calendar of Wellbeing Activities that you can take part in each semester. These provide an opportunity to take a small break from busy university life to focus on your own physical and mental wellbeing. Whether you want to meet other students or discover techniques to overcome any stress or anxiety, there is likely to be an activity or workshop that will suit you.

Chaplaincy

The Chaplaincy is open to everyone - both students and staff - from all backgrounds and cultures. People of all faiths and no religious faith are welcome. The Chaplaincy hold a variety of weekly events such as the popular Tuesday Soup Lunch and Wednesday Evening Meal, which give you the opportunity to eat good food while meeting new people.

Student Union

With over 60 societies, a variety of volunteering opportunities, different ways to represent your fellow students, and a variety of student jobs available, there are many ways to get involved in the University community via the Student Union. Plus, the Student Union (in collaboration with the Sports Union) offers a MATES scheme, which can help you meet new people, make friends and get a personalised introduction to any society or club. This can be particularly helpful if you are feeling nervous about joining a new society or engaging in any of the Student (or Sports) Union events for the first time.

Sports Union

With over 30 sports clubs, the Sports Union has a wide variety of opportunities for you to get involved in sport during your time at Heriot-Watt. The Sports Union also hosts a number of club-based or Union-wide social events as well as free and recreational sport sessions for students who want to try out something new.

As a Heriot-Watt student, you can take advantage of reduced membership rates when joining the extensive sports centre on campus, Oriam.

Lothian Disability Sport

Lothian Disability Sport is the partner charity of the Sports Union. The charity supports people with a disability to access sport across Edinburgh and the Lothians. If you or someone you know would like to find out how you can get involved please visit their Lothian Disability Sport Facebook page or contact them on admin@lothiandisabilitysport.co.uk.

Music

Music has a large role in the Heriot-Watt community. There are several ways to get involved in this through a variety of music-oriented events and music groups at the University.