Almost 1 000 new students were officially welcomed yesterday to Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) Bathurst Campus. The commencement ceremony included messages from Bathurst Mayor Norm Mann, representatives from various students’ organisations and Wiradjuri elder Mrs Gloria Rogers. “I’m pleased to be part of this important day and I am sure the new students will enjoy their time here,” said Mrs Rogers. Head of the Bathurst Campus Associate Professor Greg Walker said he hoped that CSU would extend the life experiences of the new students.The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ian Goulter said he clearly remembered leaving a small town to start university, as well as being a parent taking his own children to begin their tertiary education. “It is a moving experience and a big step,” he said. His advice to the new students? “Be open to new challenges.”