Fin Irwin (Drama 2005)
Volunteers give students fresh view
New students were given a first-hand insight into life at the University and the opportunities available through the alumni volunteering programme at a special Freshers’ Week event.
Four alumni volunteers, Holly Keatings (MA English 2009), Tim Walker (Geography 1997), Fin Irwin (Drama 2005) and Martin Corck (St Luke’s School of Education 1979) took part in the new initiative. Students were able to drop in to the informal session and seek advice from the volunteers.
Holly, who is the Fundraising and Communications Manager for charity Headway Devon, which aims to improve the lives for people who have suffered a brain injury, has previously taken part in career talks about the charity sector. She has also advised student societies on their fundraising activities.
Tim, who is the Divisional Director of finance and investment company Brewin Dolphin Securities, has mentored students and also taken part in practice job interviews, to help prepare individuals for the real thing.
Fin founded the Bike Shed Theatre, based in Exeter. He has supported students as a mentor and given career advice under the Exepert Scheme. He has also taken part in various employability events across the University supporting students with their early career planning.
Martin is the Managing Director of creative marketing company Creative Excellence, and currently volunteers as a mentor, helping individual students with their career plans.
Susie Hills, Director of Development and Alumni Relations said: “Starting at University is an exciting time for students and there is an awful lot to learn over the first few days and weeks. While there is plenty of information and advice available to them at Exeter, there’s nothing quite like speaking to someone who has been there before you, to pick up tips first hand.
“This sort of initiative really helps students gain the most from their time with us and it also helps with their early career planning.
“We are very grateful to Holly, Tim, Fin and Martin for giving up their time – once again – to help.”
