It’s Moustache season: Here’s five ways to take part in Movember at Exeter Uni

Get those mullets growing lads


November is finally here and that only means one thing, it’s time for Movember! It’s the time of year where mullets and moustaches are finally accepted and highly praised for the good cause of helping men’s physical and mental health. My favourite aspect of Movember is the competitiveness it creates. For us high achievers, the desire to raise as much money as possible with our charity is so exciting and is part of why Exeter scores so high in the fundraising rankings each year.

With Exeter Uni ranking first in last year’s Big Moustache on Campus Challenge, at a staggering amount of £104,056, it is evident that our societies excel at creative and fun ways of raising money. So, here’s a list of ways to fundraise, whether you’re a complete beginner or you’ve helped the cause before:

1. Move 4 Movember

“Move 4 Movember” typically consists of numerous fitness challenges on campus. In order to take part or donate, you can enter a physical competition – such as cycling, walking, rowing and many more. You will see Forum full of all sorts of challenges, so keep an eye out for these throughout November. Being part of the Exeter Emeralds, one of my favourite Movember events is the “Bring a Boy to Cheer” – it’s so much fun watching people try cheerleading for the first time. So, let’s get physical and push ourselves for a greater cause.

2. Bake sales

Bake sales are one of my favourite ways to raise money for any occasion. By hosting a bake sale, you can get creative AND enjoy a sweet treat whilst raising money for improving men’s health. Last year, I saw some amazing moustache-shaped brownies! With bake sales, there are opportunities for some friendly competition on who can be the most creative with their baking skills. So, why not gather up your housemates and get baking. Not only is it a great way to raise money but allows you to have fun with your pals.

3. Games nights

During November, many societies will host socials where the money from your ticket will go towards Movember. This can include board games, sober socials or even karaoke in your favourite pub in Exeter. This is a great way to socialise, have fun and raise money for a good cause.

4. The Big Dip

The Big Dip is an event organised by Exeter’s Open Water Swimming Society in collaboration with numerous other societies. Again, the money raised from ticket sales goes towards the cause, and you can enjoy a warm-up led by my professional instructors, followed by a guided swim in the sea at Dawlish Warren or Exmouth. Go on, take the plunge.

5. The Moustache

Of course, with it being Movember, growing a moustache or your hair is the traditional way of raising money for the charity. The rules are simple and fundamental to the Movember charity, grow a moustache and DON’T shave it off until the month ends. Throughout the month, ask your friends to donate to your fund and keep up your no shave motivation. This is a great time of year for all of those who have been debating growing out their mullet or beard. Get growing and get fundraising! Best of luck to everyone growing out their moustaches this Movember.