So, you’re a future University of Exeter fresher. You’ve gathered all the course info, sorted out your housing, and feel ready to dive in – but there are some things you might not have considered yet.
Outside of academics, there are many things you definitely aren’t told at the open days: The raw truths which will actually shape your time at “Exetah”.
As someone heading into my third year (though I’m mentally still a first year), I wish I could reverse time and tell my silly little fresher self these things.
Uni is all about constantly learning and evolving – I definitely still am. So, to help you begin your journey, here are the essential University of Exeter things all incoming students need to know in their first few weeks.
1. Overheard
Starting off strong (and so this article actually makes sense) – let’s talk about Overheard. This might sound foreign now, but you’ll soon be living and breathing it. Overheard at Uni of Exeter is a Facebook group where you will find anything and everything.
People resell club tickets (at ridiculous prices, which I’ll rant about later), post missing items from nights out, and expose PDA moments with unflattering photos. The feral nature of Overheard can’t be put into words, you’ll just have to see it for yourself.
2. Early nights out
If you’re used to club nights out starting at 11pm and ending in the early hours of the morning, this might come as a shock (it definitely was for me). Nights out here barely qualify as nights out. Don’t get me wrong, I love the nightlife in Exeter, but be prepared for two things: Early nights and zero spontaneity.
Most things are planned because you have to pre-purchase club tickets for clubs like Timepiece, and most of us get exhausted after having already been out for six hours.
I can’t even count how many times I’ve had dinner and gotten ready at 4pm, just to make it for the 6pm pres. But hey, at least you won’t be tired for your 8am lecture the next day.
3. Bring a fancy dress/suit
One thing I didn’t expect as a fresher is the amount of formal balls that take place in Exeter, especially if you’re involved in societies.
Students here will take any chance to make a night out fancy. There’s a winter, spring, and summer ball, and you’ll definitely need a fancy outfit for EGB (The Enchanted Garden Ball) at the end of the year; you’re bound to go at least once.
4. The hills
Ah, welcome to Devon. If you’re not planning to join the uni gym, no worries – the hills of Exeter will do the workout for you.
Though the city centre is mostly flat, anywhere else around is very hilly. Especially on campus, you may have already been warned about the infamous ‘Cardiac’ and ‘Forum’ hills. All I can say is, get practising on the Stairmaster.
5. Freshers’ tickets and high prices
I thought I’d combine these two points about tickets. Firstly, don’t worry about not getting freshers’ tickets – you’ll still be able to go out. I didn’t get any, and honestly, it was the best choice. It meant I could just go with the flow with my flatmates and friends.
Secondly, while club tickets themselves are decently priced, the resale prices on Overheard are baffling. I’ve seen people purchasing a Wednesday Timepiece ticket for over £60. For a night out? No thanks x.
6. The beach
While at Exeter, it’s easy to forget you’ve got free will and can explore more of Devon.
One thing I’d definitely recommend to incoming Exeter University students: Keep reminding yourself that the train ride to the beach (Exmouth or Dawlish, for example) is only half an hour away – and it’s cheap!
The beaches are gorgeous, so make the most of them whenever you can, whether that’s sunbathing in summer or wrapping up warm for a beach BBQ in the colder months.
7. The campus cats
Surprise! Here at Exeter, we are blessed with two furry friends, Napoleon and Nelson. They’re both ginger cats, and practically Exeter royalty at this point.
Make sure to say hi when you’re heading to your lectures (and follow them on Instagram!)
8. Outfit clones
You’ve probably heard the “Exetah” stereotype before coming here, and yeah, it’s pretty accurate. Sorry to say, but students turn up to events wearing pretty much the exact same thing, whether it’s white linens or Ralph Lauren jumpers. You might tell yourself you won’t blend in, but trust me, it happens naturally over time. Just embrace it.
9. ‘Bleed green’
Just a heads up to incoming students, if you hear the phrase “bleed green” being thrown around, just know it basically refers to being at Exeter University. So, if you see students covered in green in nights out, you’ll know why – it’s essentially patriotism for Exeter.
10. Follow The Exeter Tab
Lastly, don’t miss out on the chance to follow The Exeter Tab on Instagram! It’s the best place to stay up to date with campus news, gossip, and all things Exeter (definitely not biased at all).
Give us a follow before you arrive, and keep an eye out at the start of the year when we start recruiting new writers – we would love to have you!
