3 ways you an create change in Exeter

Hi, I’m Hannah, a second-year marketing student and in today’s blog I will be sharing 3 ways you can create change in Exeter. If you’re passionate about improving campus life, whether you have a specific idea in mind or you simply want to make a difference, here’s how you can become a changemaker, get involved, and make an impact in 2025.  

What is a Changemaker?

A ‘Changemaker’ is anyone motivated to make a positive change on the back of social, environmental and cultural problems. This change can range anywhere from local community projects to tackling large-scale global issues such as climate change.  

Why It Matters at Exeter

At Exeter, changemaking is what drives positive change amongst the student body, making the university an exciting and welcoming place to study for everyone. Students like you are at the forefront of our changemaking impact as we welcome everyone to come together, collaborate and inspire each other to drive meaningful change as little as starting a conversation that sparks awareness, all the way to transformational movements. Perhaps you’re passionate about sustainability, poverty or cultural diversity. Wherever your interest lies, there’s a way for everyone to get involved. Here’s how…

How to Get Started

1. Societies & Social Communities - Joining a society or social community is a great way to become involved in active changemaking at the university. It connects you with like-minded people who share similar experiences and values to make a positive difference. Check out our Communities to get involved.

2. Volunteering & Fundraising - At the Guild, we offer a range of volunteering opportunities for you to get involved in. Exeter Student Volunteers (ESV) is a people-focused society aiming to improve lives in Exeter’s community. Volunteering projects range from cost-of-living crisis, to environmental action and even dog walking - there’s something for everyone! Check out their projects here ESV - Exeter Student Volunteers and sign up today.

3. Academic Representation - Becoming an Academic Rep gives you the opportunity to make a positive difference by representing the wider student body to ensure academic issues are heard, listened to, and acted upon. As a rep, you can get involved in changemaking from all aspects of the academic experience, from teaching and assessment, to learning resources and personal career development. There are currently over 600 students representing the academic voice, find out more about how you can Become an Academic Rep - Student Life Hub.  

Your Impact

Here’s our incredible changemaking results so far…

• Through the three ‘Feed Your Flat’ events across both campuses we distributed enough ingredients to help 4,000 of you cook delicious, nutritious meals

• Working with the University and FoodSave, we created a Community Fridge to provide free food for students right on campus

• We co-delivered a student-led, 4-day Cultural Festival in March, packed with global food, music, and culture to celebrate our diverse community

For all results, take a look at our Impact report 2023/2024

Are you ready to make a change at Exeter?

Being a changemaker doesn't require large-scale action; even small, consistent efforts can create meaningful ripple effects. Whether you’re already supporting a campaign, have an idea or a vision of how you want something to be - we can support you with every step of your changemaking journey. For more resources, check out our Campaigns and our 5 Key Principles for Changemaking to support you to take your first step today!