IT rained on their parade but didn't dampen the excitement of 68 graduates celebrating the completion of their studies at the University of Newcastle in Port Macquarie.
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The alumni of 2013 gathered for their formal graduation ceremony at the Glasshouse on Friday. The parade of graduates was cancelled due to wet weather, but family and friends were out in force to congratulate the efforts and commitment of both nursing teaching students who will now go on to begin their careers in their chosen field.
Vice Chancellor, Professor Caroline McMillen, said the graduation ceremony was a significant moment as it consolidated up to four years of study for students while also celebrating the partnerships and leadership at the heart of the university's vision and core mission to create opportunities for students in regional communities.
Husband and wife team, Robyn and Grant Woodland of Port Macquarie, the opportunity to study in their home town and balance the commitment with work and family has enabled them to pursue careers in nursing.
Robyn graduated with honours while Grant successfully completed his three year study program with a distinction.
"There was quite a bit of stress in the house," Robyn said when asked how they managed to juggle the pressures of study with raising their daughter Kiara and running a business.
"It was difficult to juggle everything and then work as well."
Grant added that having access to tertiary education options in Port Macquarie made their decision to return to fulltime study much easier.
"You are offered more one on one help and you get to know your lecturers and have direct access to them," he said.
Tracy Dillon of Taree, Michele Hogenboom of Port Macquarie and Erin Lay of Taree all agreed the flexibility offered by the university in terms of balancing study with life was the key to their success.
"I have always loved the occupation of nursing and made the commitment to my degree to have a better life," Tracy, a mum of one said.
For Michele, having the support of her family during her studies made the long haul and late nights worthwhile.
Erin will be among many of the graduates who have secured careers locally when she takes up a post at Port Macquarie Base Hospital in the mental health unit.
The graduation was also an opportunity to celebrate the university's tenth year in Port Macquarie and the success it has achieved in partnership with the North Coast Institute of TAFE in delivering high quality education options for local students.