5 Fun Hobbies for University Students

Are you looking for a fun hobby to pass the time while studying? From sports to drama and new languages, university is the perfect place to try something new. It’s also handy having something to help you unwind when your studies become more complex or intense.

You could treat a new hobby as an opportunity to socialise too – or go it alone and hone your skills in private. Either way, there are plenty of options that don’t involve breaking the bank if you’re living on a tight student budget.
Scan through the five categories we’ve picked out below and see if you’d give any of them a go this semester.

In the last academic year before the pandemic, around 50% of students participated in a sport or went to the gym. It’s a great way to boost your wellbeing both mentally and physically – and there are loads of ways to get involved!
Team sports like football, hockey and netball come with plenty of camaraderie, while individual pursuits like swimming and running are perfect for focusing your mind.

Have you always had a creative flair? If so, test it out and see where it takes you! You could join a drama society if you’re interested in acting, or even set up a band with your musical friends.
Creative writing is a cheap hobby that you can dip in and out of easily too. Or if you always appreciate a good photograph, why not see what you can snap around campus?

Coding is the fastest-growing profession in the UK – yet there’s still a significant skills shortage. Whether you fancy filling that gap one day or not, coding is a worthwhile hobby that could lead you to creating your own websites, apps, games and more.
Platforms like Arduino are perfect for getting into programming, and there are plenty of free online courses out there too!

Do you dream of living abroad at some point in life? Or maybe you’re planning to travel in summer or after your studies. Regardless, learning a foreign language could pay off for years to come – and it’s never been easier to get started.
There are various apps and podcasts out there that can help you pick up a new lingo on your way to and from uni.   

If you’re seriously missing homecooked meals, you might be surprised just how easy it is to cook simple and nutritious feeds yourself. You’ll save money and set yourself up for life in the process!
Cooking is a great hobby to pick up with a housemate if you want to share meals and enjoy more sociable mealtimes.

Could any of these hobby ideas enhance your student experience?