I asked ChatGPT for the best Halloween costumes for an Exeter student and here’s what it said

Dressing up as Forum Hill is different


Halloween is right around the corner and we NEED the perfect Halloween costume to show off at all your spooky, scary events. For some inspiration, I turned to ChatGPT (the AI that claims to know everything) to get some creative costume for Exeter students.

Whether you’re planning on hitting Timepiece, Fever or heading to a house party, these unconventional ideas might inspire you (or make you giggle). From funny student clichés to out-of-the-box Exeter references, here’s what ChatGPT thinks are the best Halloween costumes for any Exeter student.

1. Pret Pretender

“Since Pret a Manger is an Exeter staple, why not dress as an exaggerated Pret employee with lots of coffee cups and sandwiches?”

If you’re looking for something scary, this could be it. One of the scariest things you’ll experience in Exeter is checking your bank account after treating yourself to lunch at the campus Pret. Bonus points if you drink out of a Pret cup all night.

2. University Faculty Member

“Parody one of your favorite professors or a stereotypical academic with a tweed jacket, elbow patches, and an air of intellect.”

How do you dress up as an “air of intellect”? If you’re brave enough to pull this one off, it could be pretty funny. Gather your course mates and parody different versions of your favourite lecturer. Prepare to be asked “so, what are you meant to be?” a million times.

3. Exeter Fresher vs. Final year

“Go as a “Fresher” carrying a map of the campus, overpacked bags, and Fresher’s wristbands, compared to the jaded “Final Year” student, overworked and carrying a dissertation.”

If you and your bestie are looking for a couple’s costume, why not go as this witty take on the before and after of Exeter life? Works best if you’re a final year student who wants to relive your days as a silly fresh for one night only (although I’m not sure if that’s a good idea).

4. Overworked Student Zombie

“You can add some dark circles under your eyes, messy hair, and carry textbooks or a laptop with a screen showing “Essay Due Tomorrow” or “Dissertation Draft.” This can be exaggerated for comic effect—wear a uni hoodie with fake coffee stains and carry energy drinks.”

This one hit home as a third year Exeter student. This costume can be quite clever and different compared to the stereotypical zombie costume.

5. Exeter Cathedral

“For an extravagant costume, dress as a walking version of Exeter Cathedral, complete with Gothic architecture elements like mini towers, arches, and stained glass windows.”

Ok, this is probably a tad ambitious.

6. Campus Legend Costume

“Dress up as one of the more eccentric characters or legends around campus, like a personified version of the student advice column or someone who’s always at the library.”

A campus legend could be anything from your favourite Ram bouncer to Napoleon. If you’re looking for a last minute costume idea, whack out those trusty cat ears and dress up as every Exeter student’s favourite pet.

7. Walking the Hills of Exeter

“Anyone familiar with the campus knows that walking up and down Streatham Hill is a challenge. You could wear gym gear, carry a backpack full of books, and have exaggerated props like sweatbands, water bottles, and maps to navigate the infamous hills. A sign reading “Elevation: 30,000 steps” would complete the joke.”

If you ask me, this one might be a little too traumatic. Halloween is a time for playing pretend, not reliving nightmares.

8. Rugby Player

“Exeter’s rugby culture is strong, so dressing up as an over-the-top version of an Exeter rugby player could be fun. Wear rugby gear, smear some face paint as if you’re ready for a game, and carry a rugby ball. Bonus points if you add a pint glass to mix in the social side of student life!”

Top it off with a mullet and a moustache for the perfect imitation of every Exeter f-boy ever.

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