Ever signed up for a MMU event, society meeting, or guest speaker event, only to second-guess it at the last minute?

You’re definitely not alone—we’ve all had that internal debate. But here’s the thing: sometimes, just turning up can make all the difference.

University life can be hectic. Between lectures, assignments, part-time jobs, and social plans, your calendar fills up fast.

Still, following through and attending the things you’ve committed to can have a bigger impact than you might think. Here’s why showing up matters:

Invest in Your Own Growth

Every time you attend an event, you’re choosing to invest in yourself. Whether it’s a skills workshop, guest talk, or student-led session, these experiences are designed to stretch your thinking, build your confidence, and spark new ideas.

Meet People, Make Connections

University is about more than what happens in lectures. Events are a brilliant way to meet other students, staff, and even people from your future industry. That one casual chat at a networking event could lead to a new friend, a creative collaboration, or even a job opportunity down the line.

Get Stuck Into Hands-On Learning

A lot of university events are interactive, giving you the chance to learn in ways you can’t always get in the classroom. It’s a chance to try something different, explore new perspectives, and even discover interests you didn’t know you had.

Respect the Time and Effort of Others

When you register for an event but don’t attend, it can have knock-on effects—someone else might’ve missed out on a place, and the facilitators will have planned and prepared for a full group. 

Build Habits That Set You Up for Success

Being consistent with your commitments is a key part of making the most of university life. The more you engage with opportunities outside of lectures, the more confident, capable, and connected you become.

Showing up regularly helps you build a strong routine—and that’s a skill that’ll serve you long after you graduate.