My activities

Note: this page dates to my earlier years in St Andrews, and is thus rather out of date.

St Andrews is a small town, and it would be easy to get bored during one's free time - if there weren't so many social activities going on! Over the years I've been there, I've been associated with quite a few societies, joining the committee of several. A non-exhaustive list, in no particular order, is below.

Celtic Society

The University society dedicated to Scottish culture in all its forms, these days Celtic mostly focuses on traditional dance. Its annual Highland Ball is one of the most respected Scottish Country Dance balls of the year, and its Castle Ceilidh - a huge ceilidh outside in the ruined castle by the sea, every May - is arguably one of the must-see events of the year.
I was on committee for a number of years, including a year as Treasurer, and have competed in the Newcastle competition along with participating in countless demonstrations.

Swing Dance St Andrews

Swing is very different from Scottish Country, made up as it is of often fast-paced jazzy partner dancing - Lindy Hop, Charleston and others - dating from 1920s America and focusing on the fun and the fluidity of dancing rather than strictly defined moves. The society also dabbles in blues.
I've been on committee for a few years, seeing the society grow into the active group it is today, and have attended a few workshops and one formal demonstration.

St Andrews Infirmary Blues

Blues is the lazier, sexier cousin of Lindy and other swing dances. Having a lot of history in crowded, smoke-filled parties in small houses going on till late into the morning, the style is very relaxed and close, focusing on nothing but the music and beat and a single partner. These days it's become somewhat more well-defined and also more lively, but its roots and soul are still clearly visible.
As an active member I can usually be found at the classes or at various workshops that take place round Britain.

Jujitsu Club

One of the oldest Japanese martial arts, jujitsu is based on the concept of using one's opponent's strength against them. The club in St Andrews is trained by Archie Higgins, one of the most renowned practitioners of the art in Britain. Myself, I've graded to the rank of green belt, have been on committee, and have among other things trained at the headquarters of the World Jujitsu Federation in Liverpool.

Real Ale

Not everything has to involve extreme activity! The Real Ale society meets weekly and holds various other events such as ale brewing and tastings, sampling the wide variety of beers and ales available in the vicinity of St Andrews and Fife.
I joined the committee in early 2013.

Other

Over the years I've been part of a number of societies, whether as a simple attender (Philosophy Society), as a participant in competitions and trips (the Union Debating Society) or as a committee member (French Society), even co-producing their 2010 annual Play, The Little Prince.
If you're in St Andrews yourself, I recommend trying out a few societies!