Students from across a number of disciplines took part in the first-time regional tour held by the university.

WSU Careers team member Wendy Truelove said the tour was an opportunity for students to expand their prospects and see what cities such as Bathurst had to offer.

“The tour broadens their [students’] perspective of where their careers can take them,” she said.

WSU community engagement officer Nathan Rollinson said the program showcases the opportunities available in regional communities that are not attainable in metropolitan areas.

Animal science (conservation biology) students Alicia Akins and Kayla Le Gros both admitted they didn’t expect the number of prospects presented by regional communities.

“I was surprised at how many opportunities there are in rural places, and the lack of competitiveness,” Ms Akins said.

Both Ms Akins and Ms Le Gros said they weren’t expecting Bathurst to have such a strong sense of community.

They were also expecting more of a sense of isolation in the city.

“You get a more personal experience from regional areas as well as more opportunities,” Ms Le Gros said.

“As you get older, the prospect of community becomes more important,” Ms Akins said.

Students also visited the Blue Mountains and Orange during the Western Sydney University regional tour.