On Wednesday 18 March, Jessica crossed the stage of The Cube Wodonga as graduate speaker for La Trobe’s Albury-Wodonga 2025 cohort, representing more than 125 graduates completing qualifications across health, education, social work, business, science and IT.
A mature-age student and single parent of two teenagers, Jessica began her studies part time in 2017, juggling university with family life and community-based work. Her experience reflects that of many local graduates who have combined study with work, caring responsibilities and strong regional ties.
“When I look back on the journey, it really surprises me just how much I have learned, not only about social work but also myself. It genuinely has been life changing,” Jessica said.
“La Trobe showed us what community looks like in practice. Today marks the end of one chapter but the beginning of how we use what we’ve learned to give back.”
Nursing, biomedical science, teaching, psychology and social work were among the largest cohorts in the class of 2025, highlighting La Trobe’s ongoing role in strengthening the regional workforce and social infrastructure.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell said graduation ceremonies underscored the transformative role regional universities play.
“Graduation is where individual determination meets public impact,” Professor Farrell said.
“Graduates like Jessica remind us that when education is accessible and grounded in place, it strengthens not only careers but entire communities.”
Dr Guinever Threlkeld, Albury-Wodonga Head of Campus, said the ceremony celebrated both achievement and opportunity.
“Our graduates reflect the diversity of our region, including school leavers, parents, career-changers and first-in-family students,” Dr Threlkeld said.
“La Trobe is proud to support learners at every stage of life and to see them graduate ready to strengthen their communities.”
Now a La Trobe graduate, Jessica’s focus is firmly on what comes next.
“This degree has given me the confidence to keep working alongside communities and learn from them,” Jessica said.
“That’s something I’ll carry with me long after graduation.”
Media Contact
Jess Whitty - j.whitty@latrobe.edu.au, 0481 383 817
