17 Oct South Essex College University Centre students graduate in style
South Essex College University Centre students celebrated their degree achievements at last night’s annual Graduation ceremony.
The event, which took place at the Cliffs Pavilion, Southend, saw more than 200 students receive higher education awards in subjects such as Graphic Design, Film and Television Production, Early Years Education and Criminology and Forensic Investigation.
The BA, BSc, HNC and HND diplomas were awarded by special guest, Mandy Hickson. Mandy was the only female pilot on her Front Line Tornado Squadron, flying multimillion pound fast jets for the Royal Air Force. She has operated in hostile environments, including patrolling the ‘No Fly’ zone over Iraq.
She gave an inspiring speech to the class of 2018. She said: “Life will throw challenges at you but there’s always going to be a way to get where you want to be. Take the odd knock but find a pathway to reach your goal.
“Think about what you love doing, if you can find a career that matches the skills you enjoy then you’ll never have to work. Have dreams, believe in them and put them into action.”
Angela O’Donoghue, Principal and Chief Executive of South Essex College, said: “This event is a real highlight in the calendar. It’s an opportunity for us to celebrate and recognise the success of our students. They have faced the intellectual challenge of advanced higher level study and succeeded.”
