What is the working class student experience in Exeter?

I would describe myself as working class and also come from a state school, Exeter is around 2-3 hours away from where I live so I am thinking of putting it down as a choice. However I understand that Exeter is quite a posh location considering the holiday destinations etc. and I’ve heard that many students are private school students and many cliques are formed I’m wondering if any students similar to me could confirm or deny these claims? Obviously it’s not that big of a deal to me but it’s also quite expensive so I’d rather pay to get a proper social experience on that note how is expenses around the area?

Reply 1

artful_lounger

Universities Forum Helper

There's definitely a lot of ex-public school kids there. We had an Etonian in my cohort when I was there for example. It's not the entire student body but a good chunk are of a similar background. More so than the national average at least. Equally there are a lot of international students who also went to private schools abroad (especially from Europe) - in my experience there they tended to have a fairly different "vibe" and were generally pretty relaxed and open and friendly.

I do think there's a reasonable number of students from the south west who go there as it's the strongest "regional" university in the area though, who come from a variety of backgrounds. If you're from the area I think you'll probably find it less of a shock than e.g. coming as a working class Londoner or similar (I knew a few such who seemed to find it a bit more grating as an experience there, possibly as much due to the lack of conveniences of London living as anything else).

If you're from a minority background though (e.g. BAME, LGBTQ*, differently abled, minority religion, etc) it may be a bit more noticeable. When I was there many of the above types, even if generally friendly and well meaning, could sometimes be a bit ignorant and (usually unintentionally) offensive due to having rather sheltered upbringings and while not malicious just didn't really grasp their experiences were not always universal.

Also on the subject of accessibility support for differently abled students (including those with mental health conditions) - in my experience there it was very patchy at best and several other posters over the years have indicated it has not substantially improved. So bear that in mind...one would hope now post-COVID they might have improved things though. Before and during both my experience and others was very negative in that regard however.

Note all of the above is with reference to the main (Streatham) campus. I can't comment on the Cornwall campus (I assume St Lukes similar to Streatham as it's only about 15-20 mins by bus from the main campus) from personal experience and can only observe everyone I know who went to the Cornwall campus reported that they loved it there (and several ended up permanently relocating to Cornwall after graduating)! :smile:

Reply 2

ExeterStudentRep

Official Rep

Original post

by monumental-aphor

Hi monumental-aphor!

I’m at Exeter now and I can relate to your concerns — I’m also from a state school/working-class background, and I had similar worries before coming here.

The “posh” reputation
Yes, Exeter does have quite a few students from private schools and wealthier backgrounds. But it isn’t the whole student body, and most people find their own circles through societies, sports, or their accomodation. I’ve made friends from all sorts of backgrounds, and I haven’t found cliques to be a major problem - it’s more about who you choose to hang out with.

Social experience
There’s plenty to do whether or not you’re into expensive nights out. The Guild (students’ union) runs loads of societies, many of which are either free or only a few pounds to join, and there are lots of low-cost events (film nights, hikes, board game socials, etc.). Nights out in Exeter are generally cheaper than in big cities like London, Manchester or Bristol as well.

Support for students from lower-income backgrounds
Exeter has bursaries and hardship funds if you’re eligible, which can take some of the pressure off as well if you are worried about your finances.

Overall - Yes, Exeter does have a reputation for being a bit posh, but it isn’t something that has to affect your experience. If you’re proactive about joining societies and making friends, you’ll find plenty of people like you. Costs can be managed with the right budgeting and support. I’d say don’t let the reputation put you off if you like the course and campus - it really comes down to the people you meet and what you make of it!

Hope that helps :smile:

Klaudia
University of Exeter Student Ambassador