Bond College’s first cohort of students graduated on Friday 1 February, after successfully completing their Year 12 equivalent Foundation Program in just eight months (two semesters).
All seven of the inaugural graduates are now realising their ambition of studying at university, having commenced undergraduate degrees at Bond University this semester in programs such as Law, Criminology, Business, Journalism and Sustainable Development.
Nicholas Nigg was among those graduating and scooped an impressive seven of the ten awards available, including six Top of Class subject awards, and a special Director’s Award for Academic Excellence.
This, from a student who says he underperformed in High School.
“I hated school – I mucked around a lot. I knew I was a lot smarter than my grades showed and knew I could do better,” Nicholas said.
After leaving High School, Nicholas spent six months working in trade labour before deciding to enrol in Bond College to pursue his ambition to study at university.
He says his success has been due largely to the open and relaxed learning environment of Bond College.
“It’s very different to High School. There was no teacher standing at the front yelling orders- it was more about interacting with each other and being treated like an adult.
“It brought out the best in me and made me want to learn and be involved in class.
“Now I’m studying a degree in Business and Finance and definitely feel prepared for my uni studies. Actually, I even feel one step ahead of others in my class who still have to get used to what it’s like to study at university,” he said.
Delivering the Student Address at the ceremony, Nicholas thanked his teachers for helping him and his classmates to “perform at our optimum academic levels and achieve our best.”
“The new program is definitely a great success and it would not have been as enjoyable without the people in it.
“Bond College gave us a second chance we will always be thankful for,” Nicholas said.
Bond University Chancellor Mr Trevor C Rowe also addressed the graduating class, congratulating them on their achievements and speaking of the important role Bond College plays as a pathway to Bond University.
“As well as providing an alternative pathway to university entry, Bond College offers students the opportunity to step away from a traditional high school campus and prepares them for a university lifestyle,” he said.
“The Foundation Program provides the skills necessary to survive and flourish in a university environment. It follows Bond’s tradition of offering small class sizes, engaging students and letting them share experiences.
“I congratulate you all on your enthusiasm and passion for learning and your successful transition to university,” Mr Rowe said.
Bond College was established by Bond University in May 2007 to provide students with an alternative pathway to enter university by studying a Year 12 equivalent program.
Bond College’s rapidly growing reputation for quality has seen its enrolments in its Foundation Program swell significantly in 2008, with 64 new students commencing studies in the January semester this year.