User:Amfion Bravais/Making a Difference Draft

EVE University thrives on the engagement and contributions of its members. As a sandbox organization within a sandbox game, its success is shaped by those who step up to support the community. The more members contribute, the better the experience for everyone.

This guide explores the many ways you can make a difference in EVE University. From teaching classes and mentoring new players to organizing fleets, running logistics, and driving content, everything that makes EVE Uni great is powered by its volunteers.

The goal of this guide is to inspire you to take action. Whether it’s stepping into a formal staff role, leading a project, or simply assisting others in your day-to-day gameplay, there are countless ways to get involved. By the end of this page, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how you can contribute and why it’s worth it.

Let’s get started!

EVE University: what we do

Before exploring how you can make a difference, let's take a moment to revisit what EVE University stands for.

At its core, EVE University exists to educate and train new players. Whether someone is brand new to EVE, returning after a break, or looking to expand their knowledge, we provide the guidance and support they need to find their place in New Eden. To achieve this, we offer a wide range of learning resources. We host classes, run fleets, maintain the UniWiki — one of the most comprehensive sources of information in the game and you are reading it right now! — and provide mentoring programs to help players navigate EVE’s complexities.

Just as important, EVE University fosters an active, welcoming community. EVE can be a harsh and isolating game, but within EVE Uni, new players find a place to belong, connect with others, and grow together. A prime example would be our Wormhole Community, which offers diverse content and a blend of fresh newbros and experienced veterans who guide and support newer members. Community integration and cohesiveness is of crucial importance in something like wormhole space.

The key takeaway: none of this happens without volunteers. Every class, every fleet, every Wiki update, every service — it all comes from players like you who step up to improve EVE University. That’s why engagement is critical, and that’s what this page hopes to outline — show you how you can be part of that effort.

Why volunteer?

Volunteering in EVE University doesn't stop at giving back — it’s about shaping the kind of experience you want to have in New Eden. The more people step up, the richer the experience becomes for everyone. But anyway, what’s in it for you?

Helping others

First and foremost, volunteering allows you to make a direct impact on your fellow players. There is great satisfaction in knowing that you’ve made someone’s journey in EVE a little easier — whether it’s by answering questions, leading a fleet, or teaching a class. Many of us had mentors when we started; this is your chance to pay it forward and help someone else find their place in New Eden. Watching a new player grasp a concept, conquer a challenge, or dive into content they were hesitant about can be incredibly rewarding.

Creating your own content

Volunteering lets you shape your own experience in EVE University. Have an idea for a fleet, event, or guide? Instead of waiting for someone else to do it, take the initiative and make it happen! EVE is a sandbox, and EVE University thrives on players who step up to create content. While we all enjoy sitting back and pressing F1 sometimes, if everyone takes a passive approach, content simply doesn’t happen. The more volunteers we have, the more we can spread the workload, ensuring that everyone gets to both participate in and lead content when they want to.

Leaving a legacy

You also have the opportunity to influence the future of EVE University. Many of our best programs, tools, and traditions started because someone had an idea and took the initiative to bring it to life. If there’s something missing in the Uni that you wish existed, this is your chance to build it! Your contributions could shape the Uni for years to come — whether it’s a recurring fleet doctrine, a new class, or improvements to an existing service. If you have ideas for how current programs could be improved, why not get involved with the relevant department and help refine them?

Growing as a player

On a personal level, volunteering helps you grow as a player. They say the best way to learn is to teach, and that holds especially true in EVE. Teaching a class, mentoring new players, or even answering questions in chat forces you to refine your own understanding of the game. Students often ask about aspects you may have never considered, pushing you to explore mechanics in greater depth. Engaging with the Uni’s broader community will also expose you to new perspectives and strategies — there’s always something more to learn in EVE.

Developing leadership and organizational skills

Beyond the game, volunteering in EVE Uni is an opportunity to build real-world skills in leadership, communication, and organization. Whether you’re running fleets, coordinating events, managing projects, or mentoring others, you’ll develop the ability to lead teams, delegate responsibilities, and foster a strong community. These soft skills not only enhance your experience in EVE but can also translate into valuable experience outside of the game.

Ways to Contribute

Now that we’ve covered why volunteering is so rewarding, let’s talk about how you can actually get involved. There’s no single way to contribute — EVE University thrives because of the many different roles people take on. Whether you enjoy mentoring, organizing events, leading fleets, or improving our resources and services, there’s a path for you.

Mentoring & Newbro Support

One of the most direct ways to help is by supporting new players. EVE has a steep learning curve, and many of us wouldn’t have made it far without guidance. Without help at the start, new players can quickly burn out and quit before ever seeing what makes EVE so engaging. If you like helping others get started, there are plenty of ways to do so:

• Become a mentor – Work one-on-one with new players through our `#mentor-finder` Discord channel. When a member posts looking for guidance, you can react with an emote to indicate you're willing to help and then reach out via DM. This is a great way to share your expertise on specific subjects. More details on how to use the mentor-finder are pinned in the channel.

• Help new players settle in – The `Auth Orientation` module flags new joiners. All EVE University members can check this page regularly and reach out to newcomers, ensuring they are aware of our programs, resources, and services. Ask if they need help joining classes or fleets, and point them in the right direction. Once you've spoken to them and answered their questions, mark them as "Talked to" in the Orientation module. This is a low-barrier way to help out and can be incredibly rewarding.

• Be active in Discord, in-game, and on voice comms – Sometimes, all it takes is answering a quick question or saying hello to make someone feel welcome. Whether it’s in Discord channels, voice comms, or in-game chat, being approachable and available makes a huge difference. Even a simple greeting or casual conversation helps foster a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.

• Teach classes and lead practical sessions – You don’t have to be an expert! If there’s a topic you know well, consider sharing your knowledge through classes, Q&A sessions, roundtables, or hands-on training. Even leading a small practice fleet can be a great way to help others learn.

• Edit the UniWiki – This very Wiki is one of the best resources in EVE, but it constantly needs updates. If you find outdated information or have knowledge to share, contributing to the Wiki is a great way to help. Formatting and style can always be adjusted later — what matters most is ensuring the information stays accurate and useful.

Content Creation

EVE is a game of opportunities, and a huge part of what makes EVE University special is the content our members create. If you enjoy taking initiative and making things happen, content provision might be for you.

• Lead fleets – Our PvP and PvE content depends on players stepping up to organize and lead fleets. You don’t have to be an experienced Fleet Commander — EVE University is a learning corporation, and we welcome those who want to give fleet commanding a try. If you're not ready to FC yet, consider volunteering as a second-in-command or taking a role in PvE fleets such as Incursions or Strongholds.

• Run events – From tournaments and scavenger hunts to social gatherings and training operations, events bring the community together. If you have an idea, we can help you make it happen. Our Events Department is available to support you, including providing prizes for raffles, giveaways, and CCP Partner skins.

• Drive content in your Community or SIG – Each of our Communities and Special Interest Groups (SIGs) thrives when members take an active role. Whether it’s Wormhole Community, Main Community, Incursions, Industry, Faction Warfare, Abyssal PvE, or Mining, every SIG needs people to step up and create content for their members.

• Provide opportunities for corp members – Running mining ops, organizing mission fleets, setting up Abyssal duos, or managing internal projects all contribute to making EVE University a more engaging place to play. The more you create opportunities for others, the more people will enjoy flying with you, fostering a stronger community.

Stepping into leadership

Stepping into leadership doesn’t mean doing everything alone. It’s about guiding a team, setting direction, and ensuring people have what they need to succeed. Leadership roles within EVE University offer a structured way to make a significant impact, whether by overseeing departments, leading Special Interest Groups, or taking on special projects on a case-by-case basis.

We have multiple paths for members to take on leadership roles. These roles vary in responsibility and scope, ensuring that everyone can find a way to contribute that aligns with their skills and interests.

Becoming a Manager

Managers play a crucial role in keeping EVE University running smoothly. They oversee departments, coordinate volunteers, and ensure key initiatives progress effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

• Setting direction and goals – Define objectives and ensure the team is working toward them.
• Coordinating volunteers – Assign tasks, provide support, and track progress.
• Problem-solving and decision-making – Address challenges, adapt to changes, and keep operations running efficiently.
• Removing barriers – Work with Directors to eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy and streamline workflows.

How to get involved:

• Check for vacant management positions that align with your interests.
• Propose a new special project that you believe would benefit the Uni.
• Reach out to a Director to discuss leadership opportunities.

Leading a Special Interest Group (SIG)

EVE University thrives on its Special Interest Groups (SIGs)—smaller communities focused on specific areas of gameplay. Many of these groups need leaders to stay active and engaging.

SIG Leader Responsibilities:

• Organizing activities and discussions around the SIG’s focus area.
• Encouraging participation and knowledge sharing within the group.
• Running events, competitions, or educational sessions related to the SIG’s topic.

Why lead a SIG?

• Share your passion for a particular aspect of EVE with others.
• Create engaging content for the Uni community.
• Build a network of like-minded pilots who share your interests.

You don’t need to be an expert! Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are more important than being the most experienced player in a given area. Rather than trying to be the supreme subject matter expert, focus on encouraging your team to try things, to get out in space and do stuff, and bringing new people into your area of content in an accessible fashion.

Director Roles – Shaping the Future of EVE University

At the highest level of leadership, Directors are responsible for shaping the corporation’s long-term vision and policies. Directors work behind the scenes to ensure that EVE University remains the premier learning institution in New Eden.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic planning – Define EVE University’s direction, introduce new initiatives, and improve existing programs.
• Managing and supporting department heads – Ensure managers and staff have the resources they need to succeed.
• Representing EVE University in the wider EVE community – Maintain relationships with other organizations and uphold the Uni’s reputation.

Why become a Director? If you want to have a broad, lasting impact on EVE University’s future, a Director role may be for you. Directors are individuals who see where the Uni can improve and work to make those changes happen. They ensure the organization remains dynamic, engaging, and effective in fulfilling its mission.

Flexible Roles & Tailored Leadership

Not every leadership role requires taking on a massive workload. Many positions can be tailored to fit your strengths and interests. For example:

FC Team Coordinators may focus solely on SRP, on fleet logistics, or on FC training. Communications Officers can choose to work on written content, interviews, podcasts, or video production, depending on where their skills lie. A Supply Chain Officer might be involved in procurement, in operating the Buyback system, in liaising with alliance builders, or in managing internal hauling and logistics.

If you’re interested in taking on a leadership role in EVE University, there are several ways to get involved: Reach out to a Director to express your interest and discuss available opportunities. Check for open leadership roles in departments or SIGs that interest you. Propose a new initiative that you’re passionate about leading.

No matter the path you choose, stepping into leadership is a fantastic way to shape EVE University’s future while developing your own skills and experience. Your contributions help make EVE University the best it can be!

Addressing Common Concerns About Volunteering

Thinking about getting involved but feeling hesitant? You're not alone! Many people have concerns when considering volunteering, but most of these worries can be overcome. Let's break down some of the most common concerns and why they shouldn't hold you back.

• "I don’t have enough time." - This is one of the most frequent concerns, and it's completely understandable — everyone has different levels of availability. But here’s the good news: many roles require minimal time commitment. You don’t need to dedicate hours every day to make an impact. Even answering a few questions in Discord, running a quick fleet, or helping a newbro find their way can make a significant difference. Many hands make light work. The more people contribute, the less pressure there is on any one individual. A strong team means that even small contributions from many members add up to something powerful.
• "I don’t know enough about EVE." - Another big concern is feeling like you aren’t ‘experienced enough’ to take on a role. However, experience is not a requirement to contribute effectively:nobody starts off knowing everything, and there’s no ‘minimum skill requirement’ for volunteering. Many of our best contributors started with only a basic knowledge of EVE and learned along the way. The best way to improve is by doing. Teaching, leading, mentoring, or organizing events naturally deepens your understanding of the game.

• "I don’t know where to start." - Maybe you’re interested in helping but aren’t sure what role would suit you. That’s perfectly normal, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. Talk to a Director! We can help match your interests and strengths with the right opportunities. Whether you enjoy teaching, organizing, leading, or working behind the scenes, there’s a place for you. Try different things. Many roles are flexible, and you can test the waters before committing. Most positions can even be taken on an interim basis — try it out for a few weeks and see if it’s a good fit. If not, no harm done!

At the end of the day, everyone has something to offer. Whether you have limited time, feel inexperienced, or aren’t sure where to begin, there’s always a way to contribute. You don’t have to be a veteran, and you don’t have to do it alone. Every small effort helps.