Meeting takes shape around university (5)
I believe the answer is:
forum
'meeting' is the definition.
(I know that forum is a type of meeting)
'shape around university' is the wordplay.
'shape' becomes 'form' (synonyms).
'around' indicates putting letters inside.
'university' becomes 'U' (abbreviation for university).
'form' enclosing 'u' is 'FORUM'.
'takes' is the link.
(Other definitions for forum that I've seen before include "Internet message board" , "Place where public meeting or discussion is held" , "Arena for debate" , "historically square" , "Place to discuss ideas" .)