Over three days, hundreds of excited and relieved students descended on Carlisle Cathedral.

There were tears of joy, relief and euphoria as recognition of their academic success was finally made official and they could each look forward to beginning a new chapter in their lives. 

According to the university’s chancellor – Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu – the progression from student to graduate is a significant point in life. 

“They know what they want to do and my message to them all is to go out and do it,” he said. “As I told them in my speech during the ceremony, they need to seize the day. 

“This is where the real learning begins, I think all students need to go out there and take risks. If they make a mistake, then that’s just part of their learning. They each have an opportunity that’s theirs to take.” 

Dr Sentamu, who has held the position of chancellor since the university’s inception, added that each year he continues to find himself overcome with pride at what both students and the university itself are achieving. 

“It’s great to see everyone so happy,” he added. “The university itself must take a lot of praise for what these students have achieved. Each year it’s continuing to progress and develop new partnerships. It’s something that the people of Cumbria should be immensely proud of.” 

Among those celebrating their success was Eloise Eddington, 22, from Braithwaite, who had gained a degree in learning disability nursing under the watchful eye of senior lecturer Austin Dorrity. 

Despite graduating, Eloise will not cut her ties with the university completely as she is returning to take on lecturing duties herself. 

“It’s something I decided that I wanted to do as the course progressed,” she said. “The opportunity arose and I decided to take it. It’s something I’m very happy to be doing. I always thought that I’d end up going into lecturing, although maybe not this early on.” 

Eloise is following a similar path to Austin, who completed the course himself more than 10 years ago and has been lecturing for the past five. 

“Eloise was a model student, she really took to what the course was about,” he said. “We saw the potential she had when it came to lecturing which is why we asked her to come back and be part of the teaching side of things. It will be great to have her on board as part of the team.” 

Caroline Travis, from Bothel, was also celebrating after graduating with a PGCE in design and technology. It has been four years of hard work for the 50-year-old, who has made a late start to school teaching. 

“I used to teach within the industry, but then I thought that I needed a change,” she said. 

“I first needed to get a degree, so that took three years and then there was the PGCE on top of it. I’m glad that I’m finally there.” 

The mum-of-five undertook some of her placements at Ullswater Community College in Penrith, where she is working part-time, though she’s currently taking time out following an operation. 

“I’ve had an operation so I’m taking it easy for the time being,” she said. “Both the schools and the university have been really supportive. It’s been a great experience.” 

Caroline added that having achieved a degree at her age was also testament to anyone who might be considering returning to education. 

“I’m proof that you’re never too old to learn,” she said.