How to successfully integrate into university: student clubs, associations and events

You have just arrived in France and everything is new? Clubs and associations are your best shortcut to feel at home.
You will find everyday vocabulary, friends with the same interests, practical information (housing, courses, procedures) and even experiences to highlight on your CV — sometimes more meaningful than a semester's worth of notes.

Why joining a club or association can change everything

Concretely, what does it bring you?

• Social: regular meetings and a circle of friends from the start.
• Academic: study groups, workshops, teacher and alumni contacts.
• Pro: project management, responsibilities and network to get an internship.
• Wellness: activities to decompress and find support.

Student life
Integrating is not just “participating”: it is transforming your stay into a real human adventure. By joining clubs and associations, you:

• create your circle of friends and expand your network,

• immerse yourself in French culture in a friendly atmosphere,

• boost your resume with concrete and rewarding experiences,

• find support for your courses and administrative procedures.

In short, the more you get involved, the more rich, simple... and unforgettable your student experience becomes.

Student clubs : learn, share and grow

Student clubs bring together enthusiasts around a variety of activities: sport, dance, music, photography, debate, gaming...
Whatever your interest, you will always find a club where you can express yourself, progress and meet people who live for the same things as you.
example : the Sports Bureau (BDS) regularly organizes tournaments and sports outings. It's a great way to quickly build friendships while staying active.

Student associations: commitment and solidarity

Student associations offer a multitude of opportunities to get involved and grow:

• Cultural: discover the languages, traditions and cultures of the world.

• Humanitarians: engaging in volunteering and solidarity actions.

• International: join for example Erasmus Student Network (ESN), which supports foreign students in their integration.

These associations are ideal for getting involved, acquiring new skills and opening yourself up to different horizons while leaving a positive trace around you.

Student events: essential for integrating

Throughout the year, universities and schools organize events designed to create links and strengthen cohesion:

• welcome evenings for newcomers,
  

• associative forums to discover clubs and initiatives
  

• sports days to share in a good mood,
  

• galas and festivals that bring together the entire student community.

Tip: don't miss the integration week as soon as you arrive. It is The ideal moment to meet students from all fields and quickly build your first circle of friends.

How to get started without stress

• Reference: explore your college site, Facebook/Discord pages, and the student life center.
  

• Test: participate in 2 events in your first month (evening, workshop, meeting).
  

• Arrive early: it's easier to start a conversation when the room is still full.
  

• Start small: offer a helping hand (logistics, communication) before taking on a big role
  

• Remain regular: two visits per month are enough to create solid relationships.

Tip: If you are shy, start with an online group or come with a friend. In less than a month, you will already have a network that will make your daily life easier — and much more fun

How to find, join and take advantage of student events in France

Here's a handy checklist for getting the most out of student events.

1) Where to look

• ENT/your university website
  

• Facebook & Instagram pages of your college or department
  

• Local Facebook groups
  

• ESN (Erasmus Student Network)
  

• BDE/BDS (student associations)
  

• Campus billboards
  

• Eventbrite and Meetup

2) How to register

• Read the event sheet carefully
  

• RSVP or fill out the registration form
  

• Pay for your ticket if necessary (bring card or cash)
  

• In case of volunteery/position, send an application email

3) Network effectively

• Prepare a 20-second mini-presentation (who you are + what you are looking for)
  

• Arrive 10—15 minutes early to make it easier to chat
  

• Exchange of contacts (WhatsApp/LinkedIn)
  

• Offer your help to the volunteer team: you will be more visible and integrated

4) Manage your time

• Choose 1 to 2 events maximum per week
  

• Block them in your calendar
  

• Save time for classes and rest
  

• After each event, ask yourself: network, skills or fun — what did it bring me?

- 5) Special foreign student bonus
Join ESN and international associations
Practice your French with a linguistic binome/tandem
Check the language of the event before going
Invite a friend to avoid disembarking alone

Practical tips to integrate quickly

• Dare to reach out to others, even if you are shy.
• Don't just stay with students from your home country.
• Follow the clubs' Facebook, Instagram or WhatsApp pages to be informed.
• Keep a balance between studies and associative activities.

Conclusion

Your integration at the university in France depends largely on your involvement in student life. Clubs, associations and events are open doors to lasting friendships, a better understanding of French culture and an enriching experience. Do not wait: participate from your first days, and you will see that your adaptation will be much more fluid.