Yesterday, Cosdu celebrated the graduation of Thereis, Celeste, Christine & Denning as well as the birthdays of those born in June, namely Adrian, Austin, Jean, Ramesh and even Thai & Nicole who are away.For these Cosduans, the blessings they received during Mass mark new and exciting beginnings as they cross personal mile stones journeyed with Cosdu.
Graduating from a music programme with the University of Melbourne, Christine reflects.
"I have too many memories of Cosdu. I joined in July 2002, quietly sneaking into Welcome Mass and sitting at a corner, not really wanting to make much contact. But after the fatal question of 'so what do you study?' I found myself hurled into playing the keyboard for masses. The rest as they say, is history.
I've made some of the most significant friendships in Cosdu. I leave Melbourne taking with me all the memories and experiences of Cosdu and of university life.
Now I can look forward to the future and I just can't wait."
Denning has just concluded his second degree in Melbourne. He indulges us with his wealth of experience and fond memories.
"I have been in Cosdu for about 6 years now and I have seen many transitions in leadership roles and have seen how much Cosdu has grown from the first time i joined in 2000. During my time here, I've made lots of new friends and rekindle old friendships too.
I was once a newbie, a stranger at first but I soon felt at home. Everyone was warm and friendly. They warmly invited me into their arms even though I was the youngest among them and was not studying at the University of Melbourne.
Then, I began to realise that this group does not only focus on catholicism but it also strived to make one feel at home when they are so far apart from their parents, friends and loved ones. I also realised how significant Cosdu's motto is - 'A Home away from Home, Growing together in Christ' - to me.
I like how Cosdu continues to welcome and embrace old and new face regardless of their religion and way of life. I feel a bond in each time I attend the Cosdu sessions or when I bump into fellow Cosduans at the university. The laughter and smiles I share with them never fails to lift my spirits.
Even farewells after graduation are not forever as "alumni members" continue to keep in touch and visit each other notibly in Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia.
As for now, I have graduated from the University of Melbourne with my second degree and I will treasure and relish all the lasting memories
I am heavy-hearted to leave the Cosdu family including Sister Theresa and Sister Carol who have guided me through challenging times.
Everyone has contributed to my personal growth as a Cosdu member. I hope that my presence too has enriched this group and has provided Cosdu with another branch to bear fruits.
I am nervous about facing the real world now that I've graduated. I have been so used to the student life of studying and partying. Now, I have to brace myself for another set of challenges which I hope will bring me more fun and new friends. Indeed, graduation is not simply a closure, rather it is an opening of another door for more of God's blessings as I continue to share my God-given talents with whoever I meet.
I hope that new members in years to come will be ministered by what I have shared here. The only advice I can give to the newbies is to make full use of your university life and your time in Cosdu and to "Give it a Go!" We only pass through this way once."
