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This Welcome Week, I stopped by the Guild’s stalls outside the Great Hall - and even though I’m in my second year, it was a good reminder that the Guild is for everyone. Between the freebies, the games, and the buzz of it all, I realised there was a lot about the Guild I didn’t know - and I came away with some pretty useful discoveries…
1. The Guild is the heart of student activity and community
The Guild is home to more than 200 student-led societies. Joining one is one of the easiest ways to meet new people, you already know you’ve got at least one interest in common! From music societies to birdwatching, politics to baking, there really is something for everyone, and if you are searching for a group that doesn’t exist, you can create one.
Not ready to commit? Try the Give it a Go programme, with free or low-cost activities that let you test out new hobbies, meet people, and explore Exeter without any pressure.
2. The Guild has an independent advice service
Uni doesn’t always go perfectly to plan, and that’s okay. The Guild’s Advice Team offers free and confidential support on everything from housing and finances to academic issues. They are independent from the University, so you know they are there just for you.
For day-to-day questions, student receptionists are based on Floor 1 of Devonshire House, open Monday to Friday, 10:00 to 18:00 during term time.
3. Over 80 students work with the Guild every year
Working for the Guild is more than a part-time job. I tis a way to shape student life while gaining experience that strengthens your CV. Student staff take on a wide range of roles; from welcoming people at Reception to creating content, analysing data or supporting equality and inclusion work.
Roles are flexible around your studies, allow you real responsibility and help build confidence and skills for the future – all while being part of a supportive, inclusive and really important team!
You can check out the latest vacancies here.
4. Finding out what’s on each week
Need plans for the week? Every Monday, the Guild posts its ‘What’s On This Week’ round-upon Instagram (@exeterguild). It is a quick and easy way to see what is happening on campus, whether that is a society event, a workshop, or something fun you would never have thought to try.
5. Your voice matters to the Guild
If you notice something that needs to change, the Guild helps you make it happen. From running a campaign to joining an Advisory Board, there are plenty of ways to get involved. If you want to represent your course, you can stand as an Academic Rep or Department Officer and work with staff to improve the student experience.
The Guild also sends out regular surveys to gather feedback on key issues, so even if you are not in an official role, your opinion still shapes decisions.
So,whether you’re a fresher finding your feet or a returning student looking to get more involved, the Guild always has something new to offer.