Esther Oluga was one of a group of students who visited the Jungle refugee camp in Calais with local grassroots group Welcome Refugees Colchester.

Esther Oluga

Esther, who was also a member of Enactus Essex, said: “It was quite overwhelming but I think the most valuable thing was realising the importance of discovering things for yourself, and not living through the media. It made me realise how delicate life is and that being a refugee can happen to anyone.”

Esther, who is graduating with a BA Sociology, also took the opportunity to develop her skills through a Frontrunner placement during which she helped organise Essex’s Diversity Week: “It was a great experience. I gained many new skills.”

Esther spent a year abroad at California State University in Monterey and urges all students to consider the option: “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and it completely changes your perspective.”

The doors to Graduation 2016 open on 12 July. 4,691 students will graduate, bringing the number of Essex graduates, since 1964, to more than 93,000.

Each and every one of our 2016 graduates has had a life-changing experience. They have risen to the challenge of developing a research mindset, they have been involved in clubs, societies and volunteering, and they have grasped opportunities.

We can’t tell all their stories but our Graduating 2016 student profiles shine a light on the individual experiences that make the Essex family inclusive, international and inspiring.