Debra Amarant must have dressed thousands of students in ceremonial robes since she first began volunteering backstage at La Trobe graduations 15 years ago.
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This week alone, almost 800 graduates will grace the stage of Ulumbarra Theatre to accept their diplomas.
Her role took on a special signifcance yesterday when she dressed her son, Jacob, in his graduation gown.
The 23-year-old was among those draped in tangerine regalia, the colour associated with a business degree.
Ms Amarant, who works in La Trobe’s client services department, said the atmosphere ahead of graduation events was an anxious but special one.
“You end up knowing students for three or four years - even friends of Jacob who've graduated – and it's quite an emotional day,” she said.
“It’s just a nice ending to the story, being able to see them graduate, because you’ve assisted them through that time at uni.”
Journey to graduation
It was a long road to graduation for Mr Amarant.
He first enrolled in a science degree at La Trobe five years ago before taking a break to reassess his career goals.
He returned to the university as a business student, a decision that paid off this year when he found events management work at a Bendigo funeral home.
He was also married and welcomed a daughter, Margaret, during his time at university.
“(It is the) end of an era and a long journey that I wasn't too sure I'd complete,” Mr Amarant said before Wednesday’s ceremony.
“Sometimes I didn't think I'd get through it because so much has happened.”
He was now enjoying his first weekends and public holidays without casual retail work in seven years.
Head of Campus Rob Stephenson said bachelor, masters and PhD recipients had worked hard to complete their tertiary qualification.
“We’re hearing lots of great stories already about their lives after university and we look forward to many more as the years progress,” Mr Stephenson said.
“We congratulate them on their remarkable achievements, and thank the family and friends who’ve supported them on their La Trobe journey.”
La Trobe university graduations are also held today and tomorrow.
Did you know?
The graduation cap, hood and gown are survivors of Middle Ages fashion. The colour in which the hood is lined depends on the subject area of its wearer.
- Education – claret
- Arts – turquoise
- Business – tangerine
- Science – saffron
- Engineering – nutmeg
- Law – crocus
Mark Kearney
Journalist. Traveller. Pop culture connoisseur. Mark is passionate about education, the arts and social justice, especially stories affecting the LGBTI community.
Journalist. Traveller. Pop culture connoisseur. Mark is passionate about education, the arts and social justice, especially stories affecting the LGBTI community.
