More than 30 University of Wollongong students celebrated their graduation from the Bega campus last week.
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From commerce to management, the graduates gathered in the Bega Valley Commemorative Civic Centre on Thursday, December 6 to share their achievements with friends, family, colleagues and the wider community.
After years of dedication they were all smiles before the presentation ceremony.
Eden’s Kayla Robbie went through the university’s high school program and became a mentor.
This year she completed her Bachelor of Arts in community, culture and environment, and will begin a Master of Primary Teaching next year in Wollongong.
“I just love working with kids. I’ve done some work placements and I’ve really enjoyed it. It has been inspiring,” the 22-year-old said.
“I want to make a difference and help people.”
She said the key to educating young people is to make learning “fun and interesting” and to involve kids in their own learning experience.
While she said she enjoys life on the Far South Coast, a move to Wollongong next year will allow her to experience a larger campus, she said.
Bermagui’s Maddy Charlton-Owen is on her way to becoming a nurse after finishing her Bachelor of Nursing degree this year.
She has been offered work at the Calvary Public Hospital Bruce in Canberra and is also keen to take her skills overseas.
“The degree was suggested to me by my folks and I haven’t looked back since,” the 24-year-old said.
“It was the only moment I’ve had in my life where it’s felt like a light bulb has gone off in my head.”
The university’s Pro Vice-Chancellor (Inclusion and Outreach) Professor Paul Chandler presented the graduates with their degrees.
Djiringanj and Ngarigo Elder Aunty Colleen Dixon welcomed the crowd to Djiringanj land and Bega campus manager Sam Avitaia welcomed guests.
Bega Valley Shire deputy-mayor Mitchell Nadin congratulated the students on their achievements.