THOUSANDS of students from the University of Winchester are celebrating their graduation in the city centre this week.
The ceremonies at Winchester Cathedral from Tuesday, October 22 to Friday, October 25, see thousands of graduates don their caps and gowns as most bid farewell to university life.
Each ceremony is split into different faculties, with students from crime, law and justice and the faculty of business and design technologies having their ceremony on Tuesday.
Law graduate Sarah-Jane Williams told the Chronicle: “I feel happy (to graduate). It was a long time coming and it has been a long journey. I have had my ups and downs, but it was worth it all.
READ MORE: Winchester film students win award at the International Film Festival Manhattan
“The university was so supportive – I couldn’t have asked for a better support system. I have already found work as a paralegal, and I am going to start training to be a legal executive.”
Natasha Hutcheon was celebrating after achieving a first with honours in forensic investigation. She said: “It has been a bit overwhelming, but it has been fun. I am looking at going into pathology.”
Criminology student Janine Bell said she is graduating the same week as her daughter. She said: “It has been really lovely coming back and seeing my friends from my course. It has been a great experience, and I now have a job at Winchester Crown Court!
“My daughter is also graduating later this week – all in all, this hasn’t been too bad for 50!”
Law graduate Luke Halliday said: “It has been very exciting, but also stressful – I was worried that my hat might fall off. It’s like balancing an egg on your head!
“It has been quite the ride. University has been a fun but stressful time. There were highs and lows but it was rewarding nonetheless.”
Criminology student Evie Ellis said: “I feel relieved but very happy. I am going to miss it but I am happy that it’s over. I will miss the people and the place, but I’m happy that my degree is done!”
Scott Edwards, who completed a business management degree, was still waiting for his graduation ceremony to go ahead. He told the Chronicle: “I’m excited. It is good to see some friends after the long summer. I’m looking forward to finishing my time here.”
SEE ALSO: 'It's an exciting addition': Crowds flock to now open Cornish Bakery
When asked if he had any advice for students looking to go to Winchester in the future, Scott said: “My recommendation is that people join the football second team!”
Joseph Wilcox, who studied business management and leadership, said: “It is really exciting. I’m very happy to be graduating. The course was really insightful and worthwhile.”
Alongside the former students graduating this week, the University of Winchester is also giving several honorary degrees to notable figures, including Roman Kemp, Dr David Percy, Emily Ball and Professor Jacqueline Dunkley-Bent.
A full list of graduates can be found in the October 24 edition of the Hampshire Chronicle, out this Thursday.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here