This curiosity led Tessa to pursue a career in speech pathology, where her dedication and enthusiasm have now earned her top marks in her graduating class at La Trobe University.
Tessa was among more than 600 undergraduate and four PhD students in Bendigo who capped off their years of hard work at the Ulumbarra Theatre across four graduation ceremonies on April 15 and 16, becoming the largest cohort of graduates to date.
Tessa said her academic achievements throughout the four-year honours degree were the culmination of organisation, “pure hard work” and high engagement. She also gave credit to her supportive family.
“La Trobe really recognised my potential and supported me in achieving my goals, which shaped my university experience and opened other opportunities, including working as a Student Ambassador and my involvement in the Rural Health Innovation Lab,” Tessa said.
Health comprised the largest cohort of graduates this year, equating to nearly 75 per cent. This supports La Trobe’s $43 million investment in new clinical teaching facilities for allied health, dentistry, midwifery and nursing in Bendigo.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said graduates would play an exciting role in strengthening the workforce and livelihoods of their communities.
“La Trobe has a vital role to play in generating the skilled workforce needed to increase productivity for economies and communities to thrive in regional Victoria and beyond,” Professor Farrell said.
“I congratulate the students graduating from our Bendigo campus this week and look forward to following their future success.”
On Tuesday evening, the University acknowledged the achievements of its top students through 76 awards that were presented by donors at the Ulumbarra Theatre.
Marg O’Rourke, Bendigo Head of Campus, said the Student Prizes and Scholarships Ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate highly motivated students and recognise the contributions of staff and community.
“This event is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our teaching and academic staff as well as our donors, who are deeply invested in the success of our students,” Marg said.
“These prizes are not just awards; they are a celebration of our top students studying in Bendigo – now a vibrant University City - who will make significant impacts both here and beyond.”
Tessa received the Speech Pathology Australia Student Award for outstanding academic and clinical achievements throughout her Bachelor’s degree.
“It makes me feel really giddy that the governing body of speech pathology in Australia has chosen to recognise my efforts and support me in this way as I take the next step into the ‘speechie’ world,” Tessa said.
“I am so humbled and honoured to be the chosen recipient and to start my career off with such positivity.”
Jie ’Jack‘ Hao was one of two students awarded for their dedication to technology at the Bendigo campus.
Eager to be part of technological advances sweeping the globe, Jack enrolled into the Master of Internet of Things (IoT) to further his software-testing background.
“AI and the internet are continuously transforming our way of life, which is what inspired me to pursue a Master’s in IoT,” Jack said.
“I chose La Trobe because of its strong reputation in the Industry Based Learning (IBL) program, which gives students invaluable internship experience. I know this is crucial for securing a job in the Australian IT industry.”
Next semester, Jack will be putting theory into practice by commencing an IBL placement with Bortana EV – a company that develops electric vehicles for the mining industry.
PHOTO: La Trobe University Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell, City of Greater Bendigo Mayor Andrea Metcalf, La Trobe graduate Tessa Jones and Bendigo Head of Campus and Macebearer Marg O'Rourke.
Media Contact
Jess Whitty - j.whitty@latrobe.edu.au, 0481 383 817
