While most voters in the Armidale region decided against giving young Martin Lawrence their number 1 vote, Charles Sturt University had no hesitation in awarding him the highest graduate academic honour.

Two weeks ago Martin stood as the Labor candidate for the seat of Northern Tablelands in the NSW election polling around 10 percent of votes. But at only 20 years of age, there are plenty of elections left in Martin, who will graduate tomorrow from Charles Sturt University, with a degree in Communication and be awarded the University Medal.

"It was an incredible experience and at first I was surprised to get the backing of the party, being so young, but I think it showed that I was passionate about what the Labor Party stands for and they were willing to give me a go," he said.

It's not surprising that Martin threw himself head-long into a hectic state election campaign when it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to achieve results that are worthy of CSU's highest academic honour.

"I am very honoured to be receiving the University Medal and appreciate all the practical experience the Communication course at CSU allows students to do.

"That experience really helps in understanding what a real job in journalism will be like."

With a major in politics and history, his defeat at the recent election has by no means quashed Martin's political ambitions.

"I want to work in politics but be able to combine my media interests. Perhaps I'll start out as a researcher or electorate staffer. At this stage I will go wherever the job takes me," he said.