Life Advice
Hello! Our names are Maegan Paul and Violet Goldstone and we are both returning lowers in Dunbar Hall and Merrill Hall. It’s halfway through the year, so you probably have a nice sense of how things are at Exeter. Now is a great time to get involved in clubs, especially if this is your first year at the school. We hope to provide some helpful answers for anyone that has asked us questions. We will be having life advice columns in the future, so contact us at mpaul@exeter.edu or vgoldstone@exeter.edu to ask some more! I want to apply for leadership positions on campus, but I feel like I can’t because I’m not one of the biggest members.I feel like this is a struggle that many Exonians can relate to. One aspect of the issue is that you want to have a larger role in clubs on campus, but the other aspect is the slight concern about what people will think about you. Of course, other people’s opinions can be important, but think about why you are concerned. Is it because you care about what others think of you or because this is how you would feel if someone else were to do the same thing? Reflect upon that and, if you’re still confused, I would suggest searching for the root of your problem. If you are not truly an avid member of the club, I would dissuade you from applying. I know that college is on the mind of most Exonians, but do what makes you happy rather than doing something that makes you seem impressive.- MaeganHow do I get involved in political activism on campus?Well, we have a ton of clubs on campus relating to activism. We have Fem Club, Exonians Against Sexual Assault (EASA), Pub Club, Dem Club and so many more. The best way to start is to find like-minded peers on campus. I know that Dem Club has campaigned for local and national elections in the past, so you can definitely do something similar for whatever group resonates with you the most. People tend to think that Exeter is a liberal school where conservatives are unwelcome, but that’s simply false. Admittedly, 44% of those who responded to the Eight Schools Association survey claim to be liberal, but a fair number of other political affiliations exist on campus as well. Just dive into whatever interests you, and you shouldn’t have to worry too much about facing backlash.-MaeganWhy do all of my teachers hate me?I’m sure your teachers don’t hate you! Most teachers at Exeter are very open to conferences outside of class. If you want to work on your relationship with them, try scheduling a time to meet and talk about your concerns. Talking to them is always a good start. -VioletWhat are some things to do during spring term?I love spring term. It's warm , everyone's in a good mood and there are so many fun things to do around campus! I recommend going to the rope swing by the river, playing spike-ball and exploring the town more if you're new to Exeter. One of my favorite memories from last year is buying a water gun from the toy store and using it all spring term. Or, if you want something relaxing to do, you can always get ice cream and walk down Swasey. If you're looking for things to do off campus, it's always fun to go to the beach or to Portsmouth.-VioletHow can I make new friends around campus?People are more willing to make friends than you think! It can be as easy as saying hi to new people on the path or sitting with different people during lunch. -Violet