Hundreds of students will be welcomed to La Trobe University’s Bendigo campus this week as part of Orientation Week celebrations – including more than 150 newly arrived international students who are commencing their studies in 2023.
The number of international arrivals is a record for La Trobe’s Bendigo campus, which is increasingly able to attract students seeking a world-class education coupled with the lifestyle benefits of regional living.
This year also marks a particularly special educational milestone, as La Trobe joins with to celebrate 150 years of access to tertiary education in the city.
La Trobe University Pro Vice-Chancellor (Regional), Associate Professor Melanie Bish, said La Trobe was proud to play a vital role in 150 years of tertiary education in Bendigo, and contribute to the social, educational and economic life of the city.
“It’s wonderful to be welcoming students to the University, knowing they will become part of such a long tradition of tertiary education in Bendigo,” Associate Professor Bish said.
“We know the transformational power that access to higher education has, and we are deeply committed to our regional campuses, and offering world-class education and research in regional Victoria.”
Associate Professor Bish said La Trobe continues to build on an educational tradition that began in 1873 with the Bendigo School of Mines, and is proud to be part of the cultural and educational fabric of the city.
“We are continuing the strong legacy of our antecedent organisations, today graduating hundreds of nurses, midwives, dentists, engineers, teachers, social workers, planners and accountants every year,” Associate Professor Bish said.
“Our graduates contribute so much to regional Victorian communities, and the impact of higher education resonates across generations.”
La Trobe University Campus Director Associate Professor Julie Rudner said that during Orientation Week students can attend information sessions, find out about clubs and societies, join social activities and connect with other students starting their university journey.
“It can be a big leap starting university, or returning to study, so coming along to Orientation is a great way to feel more prepared, have fun and get to know people,” Associate Professor Rudner said.
“La Trobe is part of the Welcoming Universities pilot program, and we want to support all our students to feel part of a supportive community and thrive as they pursue their career aspirations.”
Orientation week runs from the 20th to the 24th of February, with the main day of the Welcome Festival taking place in Bendigo on Wednesday 22nd February.
About 150 Years of Tertiary Education in Bendigo
La Trobe University, alongside partner organisation Bendigo Kangan TAFE, are marking 150 years of tertiary education in Bendigo with events across the year – including a procession through Bendigo on 21st April – and continue to provide high quality, accessible higher education in regional Victoria.
La Trobe University and Bendigo Kangan TAFE were preceded by higher education providers in the region such as the Bendigo School of Mines, Bendigo Teachers College, Northern School of Nursing, College of Art and Design, and the Bendigo College of Advanced Education.
