All 63 clubs and societies are partially funded through student fees by the Students' Union, which is elected by students to represent their views. The Students' Union also funds the Carillon, the weekly student newspaper that operates as a cooperative and is published by students. The Students' Union gives students a voice in the governance of the University. The SU has representation on a number of University committees and boards. As well, the SU has several internal committees which allow students to get involved in deciding how their student fees are spent.
Student fees provide support services and facilities to on-campus students.
The U of R has always had an active arts community. Since the move of the Faculty of Fine Arts from the old campus to the new University Centre, the main campus has come alive with the arts. After hours at the U of R is a time to unwind and make new friends. The Lazy Owl bar hosts live bands, raves, DJs and special events. The Cougars regularly play their hearts out to a full house in one of six varsity sports.