Dr Mathe was one of the more than 1000 University of Newcastle students donning caps and gowns for graduation ceremonies in The Great Hall on Thursday and Friday.

“It’s been a very strange experience, I hadn’t thought about it that much before but when we got the robes and everything it got a bit overwhelming,” said Dr Mathe, who comes from a village of 250 people called Gross Schierstedt.

“I was sad my mum could not be here, but she used online streaming and could still see me. Plus my partner and his family were here supporting me.”

For her PhD in medical genetics, Dr Mathe focused on the progression of breast cancer as it spread from the primary site to the lymph nodes and caused secondary cancers.

“It was a good cause and we were funded by the National Breast Cancer Foundation,” she said. “I found a few genes that may cause transmission from primary cancer to the lymph nodes.

“Hopefully that may translate into biomarkers so we can see if you’re more likely to develop secondary cancers. Using that, we can start the treatment earlier and make it more specific.”

Dr Mathe studied in Dresden for her undergraduate degree in molecular biotechnology.

She completed her honours in bowel cancer and decided while waiting to start her masters to travel to Australia in 2011.

Dr Mathe was working as a research assistant at HMRI when she was offered the chance to complete her PhD.

“It’s the end of my study journey – for now,” she said.

“I’ve now got another job – working on fertility research at the university.”

Her friend Katherine Bolton also completed a PhD in medical genetics, but was looking at genetic variations that are called tandem repeats when they occur in the controlling regions of genes.

“I was looking at how these genetic variations can affect the expression of those genes and their involvement in breast and endometrial cancer,” Dr Bolton said.

“The regions are highly mutable and can lengthen or shorten, which means more or less of the gene is being expressed. If the gene is involved in the cancer pathway, it can increase the risk of developing cancer.”

Dr Bolton completed her undergraduate degree in science and an honours year, but declined a scholarship at that time to complete her PhD to work as a research assistant, teacher, in a laboratory and have her two daughters.

“But I wanted to get back into research – it’s constantly evolving, with breakthroughs meaning you’re always moving forward and learning new techniques.”

Dr Bolton worked in Gosford Hospital for most of the five years she was completing her PhD. 

“It’s a relief and a real sense of accomplishment to finish – it’s all come full circle.”

While most graduates emerged from their ceremony clutching their newly acquired degrees, Kaia Ireson was holding something even more precious: her six week old daughter, Amelia.

In the space of three months, Ms Ireson completed her Master of Family Studies (with distinction), took maternity leave from her job at the Family Action Centre, gave birth and graduated.

“I think it’s important for them to see why mummy was doing all that work,” Ms Ireson said of having son Tobi, 4, and Amelia present.

“It’s also about role modelling, showing them how important education is.”

Ms Ireson said it was a “bit crazy” juggling study, work and caring for her son while heavily pregnant.

“I did some of the work online but I had to attend some workshops, which was pretty tough,” she said. “But I was lucky enough to have the support of my family.”

Ms Ireson completed her undergraduate degree in social science before deciding to further her knowledge by embarking on a masters degree, specialising in intensive family practice.

“I work as a program officer in the community running a parenting program,” she said. “I believe parents should get all the support they need, rather than judging each other and tearing each other down. We need to build on each other’s strengths and invest in our children, who are the future.

“I feel my masters has given me a broader understanding of where people are coming from, the vulnerabilities people have and how I can best work with them.”

Meanwhile, Papua New Guinean Charlie Siniu chose to bring his own good luck totem; a traditional headpiece worn for special occasions, including gradations.

“It signifies my clan and where I come from – it’s a little bit of home and identifies me as someone from the Pacific,” said Mr Siniu, who completed a Master of Social Change and Development. “I also have a traditional necklace usually worn by the chief of the clan for significant events.”

Mr Siniu, from Manus Island, completed his undergraduate degree in political science and worked for the PNG Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as a senior foreign services officer.

“I was looking at career development,” he said. “I want to serve the government and remove trade barriers so we can get more investment into PNG and lift the standard of living – mainly health and education – and improve people’s lives in rural areas.”

Mr Siniu started researching studying in Australia and originally thought UON “must be somewhere in England”, although it has since “become like a home”. He was recently promoted to an assistant director working in border security and hopes to become a director.