Pride, happiness and a sense of accomplishment.
These are the words that best describe the emotions on display at the Cobram Secondary College Graduation Day for the Year 12 class of 2022.
For the graduates it was a chance to celebrate their achievements and reflect on their time at the college.
Dressed in flowing robes, they were surrounded by loved ones who watched on as they stepped forward to receive their graduation certificate from Department of Education deputy secretary Dr David Howes.
Dr Howes said it was fantastic seeing the students graduate and acknowledged that the students had had a challenging few years, before wishing them the best for the future.
“I think it’s really good to see the variety of outcomes and the variety of pathways that the students are able to take.”
Among the students who graduated was the 2022 school dux Noah Sullivan.
Described by staff as a quiet achiever with a determined and focused attitude Mr Sullivan was accompanied by his parents and grandparents at the event, and was naturally ecstatic about both his graduation and his academic achievements.
Mr Sullivan plans to go to study a Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne with the aim to become a mechanical engineer.
Talking to the Courier, Mr Sullivan said that finishing high school was fantastic.
“It feels great, very nice. I feel excitement for the future,” Mr Sullivan said.
The graduation celebration was attended by officials from both local and state levels as well as local and regional employers.
College principal Kimberley Tempest said the graduation day was the most significant day in the school’s calender and for good reason.
“The transition from school to adult life is significant and worthy of celebration.”
Ms Tempest pointed out that the graduation ceremony offered the chance for not just the students to celebrate but for their families and the greater region to celebrate with them.
“We come together as a school to celebrate, also with the families of the graduates who are proud and excited for their young adults stepping into the world beyond school.”
The college principal said the presence of local and state dignitaries was a testament to the high esteem Cobram Secondary is held within the community and the Department of Education. She said the college was known to produce successful graduates who had gone on to make significant contributions to society.
Addressing the graduates Ms Tempest said she was proud of each of them and told them that the world was theirs for the taking.
“This is not the end, but merely a beginning. Your school, and your family have given you a solid foundation from which you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Aim high, dream big and never stop learning!”
The Courier team congratulates all graduates on their milestone achievements.