Student Interactions

Perhaps one of the most under-appreciated elements in the daily life of a chemist is the opportunity to make valuable contacts with fellow chemists, be this during a well-earned coffee break or through social and networking events.

Student chemical societies arguably recognise or value the social side more than most. Although on the surface some events may just seem like a great opportunity for a party, these friendships, once formed, can prove to be essential in providing a support network during a student's time at university. 

These are also life-skills that are essential to scientists later in their careers: gaining the confidence to discuss ideas, learn from fellow chemists and form collaborations are crucial to career development.

There are 30 student chemical societies (or ChemSocs) spread across the UK, and a further four in China. As well as university ChemSocs there are a number of regional younger members' networks for chemists in their early career, representing the next generation of chemists.

Most of the ChemSocs are independent student societies, which are supported by the RSC with grants, materials, posters, and practical guidance. The societies run anything from guest lectures, debates and chemistry themed activities, to more informal social and sports events. Many ChemSocs also provide support and advice for new and prospective students. 

ChemSocs are valuable to the RSC as they contribute ideas, provide a voice at the General Assembly and help during Chemistry Week. They are also an important point of contact to university departments.

It's more than painting the town red

The Graduate Chemical Association at the University of Bristol uses social occasions and other fundraising activities to finance some worthy endeavours. For two consecutive years they have volunteered their time towards a community challenge. 

In 2006 staff and students painted Weston Park primary school. Last year the chemists turned their creative skills towards designing and transforming an area of wasteland in Stockwood, Bristol, into a communal garden. The project organisers were presented the Higher Education Student Volunteering Award at Wembley Stadium in December, in recognition of their efforts.  

Joe Beames, GCA President, reflects: "We aim to bring together postgraduates and staff from all walks of chemistry and hope to do some good in the local community along the way."

The historic society of Strathclyde

The Andersonian Chemical Society (ACS) claims to be the oldest university based chemical society. Founded in 1886, it has been running continuously for 122 years. Originally named "Anderson's College Science Society" it became the Andersonian Chemical Society just one year later. Anderson's College was a precursor to the University of Strathclyde, named after the Scottish natural philosopher, John Anderson.

The object of the society, as printed in 1887, was: "to read papers and hold debates on scientific subjects". This object was amended slightly later on to add: ".and any scheme that may be deemed desirable for furthering the interests of members."

Colette Dalton, RSC rep for the ACS comments: "At the time this meant that work visits could be organised by the society; however we also take this to mean organising social activities for members!" 

The society still holds centenary lectures with notable speakers ranging from Anthony Ryan to Jonny Ball. It also still provides crucial links between students and industry through recruitment lectures. The most recent social event was a cheese and wine evening with giant games such as Jenga, skittles and Twister. 

Colette added: "So far we have not heard of any claims disputing that the ACS is Britain's oldest university-based chemical society." 

RSC News would like to challenge members to identify any such (continuous running) society that could lay claim to being older? 

Young Mancunians unite

The Younger Members' Network in Manchester can be seen as a giant super-society: with over 700 members from the University of Manchester (now merged with UMIST) and Manchester Metropolitan University as well as many younger members from industry, it is one of the RSC's largest younger member networks.

It, along with a growing number of other chemical societies, has utilised online networking tools such as MySpace and Facebook to communicate to members and advertise events. There is more than enough to advertise, with their monthly events ranging from brewery tours, to green clubbing, to periodic table bingo!

Joining forces

Whilst most ChemSocs are excellent at linking chemists within universities, the ChemSocs of Loughborough and Nottingham are taking this a step further. Both committees met late last year to discuss the possibility of holding joint events. As a swift follow-up, the Nottingham ChemSoc committee joined Loughborough for their next social.

Tom Varley, RSC officer of Loughborough ChemSoc said the event was a huge success: "Lets hope this is the first of many joint socials between the two departments." He hopes that other societies will also be encouraged to join forces and share ideas.