University gives students a space to build genuine and lasting alumni friendships which can span degrees and countries, sustaining individuals long after graduation with their closeness and understanding. This was certainly the case for Exeter alumni trio Dr Riadh Ghemmour (MSc Educational Research, 2018 and PhD in Education, 2022), Bryan Fernandes (Medical Sciences, 2018) originally from India, and Lukas Žurumskas (Flexible Combined Honours including Psychology with Gender Studies and Certificate of HE in Accounting and Finance, 2017) from Lithuania. The three friends found the Exeter effect brought them together and their friendship has only grown stronger since, with the group still in touch to this day.
Recently, Riadh, Bryan and Lukas met for brunch in London, where they all now live and work, (as an academic, Head of Patient Experience and Engagement and Digital Marketing Specialist respectively) and they found themselves reminiscing about their years at Exeter. We caught up with them to find out how their friendship began.
How did the three of you meet?
“Our friendship story started when we were all looking to make new connections. Riadh first met Bryan at Giraffe House on our St Luke’s Campus in early 2018, while Bryan and Lukas crossed paths at the Imperial pub in Exeter during a social event back in 2017. Lukas graduated in 2017, but Bryan introduced Riadh to him in 2018 during a visit to London, as Lukas had already moved there after completing his course.”
What were some of your Exeter highlights and standout memories?
“We have so many fond memories from Exeter. Walking along the quay together is unforgettable – it felt like the perfect backdrop for endless conversations and laughter. We also cherished our coffee catch-ups at the Forum, late nights spent talking and bonding, and of course, curly fries at the Ram. Lukas fondly remembers the Holi Festival as a standout experience, full of energy, music, and joy.”
Pictured: Bryan (left), Lukas (middle), and Riadh (right) in Heavitree (Exeter) 18 April 2018.
How have you kept in touch since graduating?
“Even though we’ve all gone our separate ways at times, we’ve made sure to keep in touch. London became our hub for shared adventures, whether it was exploring new parts of the city, attending events together, or simply being there for one another during challenging moments. Our friendship has been a constant source of support in a city where none of us have family nearby.”
What does friendship mean to you all?
“For us, friendship is a safe space – a judgment-free zone where we can truly be ourselves. It’s about listening, supporting, and showing up for each other. Being in London without family can be overwhelming, but our bond provides a sense of home and comfort. We know we can rely on one another no matter what.”
What advice would you share to incoming students nervous about making friends, and recent graduates looking to maintain their university friendships?
“Our advice would be simple but heartfelt: listen without judgment, be curious, be kind, and spread love and affection. Make the effort to meet new people and be grateful for the connections you make because friends often become family. Continue supporting each other, even across distances, and cherish the moments you share together — they matter more than you realise.”
Thank you Riadh, Bryan and Lukas for taking the time to share your friendship with us, your insights into both the Exeter chapter where it began and letting us how it has sustained you all in the years since. We look forward to watching it flourish for many more years to come!
Have you got an Exeter friendship story to share? Whether you met in halls, started a connection during societies or sports, or caught up at an alumni event after graduation, we’d love to hear about it. Drop us a message on our socials or reach out via email at alumni@exeter.ac.uk to let us know.
Also If you’re interested in walking down memory lane with a campus visit, looking for help promoting a class reunion or keen to find a fellow alumni you’ve lost touch with please do take a look on our website or get in touch with us via email at alumni@exeter.ac.uk . Plus you can take a look at our available networks and events online if you’re looking to make new friends and connections.
Pictured in the banner image: Bryan (left), Riadh (middle), and Lukas (right) at Primrose Hill Park, 17 August 2025.