Guide to Starting Initiatives with Zero Experience

Many students hold back from taking action because they think: “I’ve never led anything before, so how could I possibly start something new?” At HAPHE, we believe the opposite: having zero experience can be your greatest advantage.

Kat - University of The West of England

Why no experience is an opportunity

Without “rules” in your head about how things should be done, you’re more open to creative approaches. You’re not locked into one way of thinking. That flexibility is powerful in preventing over-investment because it forces you to try, adjust, and pivot when needed.

The simple starter path

1. Find one idea that excites you – It doesn’t need to be big. A casual meet-up, a group chat, or a mini event can be the spark.

2. Invite two or three friends – Sharing energy across even a small group makes the initiative real.

3. Use what’s already around you: a university room, a club noticeboard, a WhatsApp group. No fancy resources needed.

4. Ask for guidance when you need it: A staff Guide to Starting Initiatives with Zero Experience energy. Instead of being tied to just your studies or a relationship, you’ve added leadership and creativity to your portfolio. This buffer makes you more resilient when challenges arise.

The takeaway

Zero experience doesn’t disqualify you, it actually makes you a better fit to start. HAPHE exists to support students who are willing to try, adjust, and grow into leadership. What matters isn’t perfection, it’s taking the first step.

Change begins in small circles. See how HAPHE began and spread, and explore how prevention builds resilience.

 Learn to recognise triggers of student trauma, and discover how to start your own HAPHE team on campus.

 Every conversation can spark a movement — yours might be next.