Amelia Bernasconi and Katreena Shelley will both graduate with a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) at CSU Bathurst on Thursday after three years of study.

“I just feel so relieved and accomplished, and am looking forward to getting my expensive piece of paper,” Ms Shelley said.

Although there were times where it got tough, Ms Bernasconi insisted it all can be done.

“It’s all about balance. It’s only three years of your life,” she said.

Both Ms Bernasconi and Ms Shelley took on volunteer work at 2MCE and National Radio News at CSU Bathurst’s radio station.

With the hands-on experience provided, they feel confident in taking on the journalism world.

“I’m a hands-on learner and without the experience I got from working at 2MCE, I would not be as prepared as I am now,” Ms Shelley said.

Ms Shelley was also able to establish contacts which led her to run on Councillor Ian North’s ticket at the local government elections in September.

“CSU just offers opportunities beyond its reputation,” Ms Shelley said.

Ms Bernasconi says the highlight of her university experience was expanding her horizons.

“I’m from Scone, so coming to Bathurst is definitely my highlight moment,” she said.

Ms Bernasconi and Ms Shelley have already secured jobs.

More than 4000 people are expected to attend the four CSU Bathurst graduation ceremonies on Thursday and Friday at St Stanislaus’ College, with just under 900 students graduating.

Faculty of Arts and Education students will have their graduation ceremony on Thursday at 9.30am, followed by more Faculty of Arts and Education students and the Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences graduates at 3pm.

On Friday, Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences and Faculty of Science students will graduate at 9.30am and another group of Faculty of Science students will graduate at 3pm.