Three’s not a crowd at UQ graduations

University graduations are a momentous occasion for families, but for the Di Corleto family this December’s graduations at The University of Queensland (UQ) will be three times as special with all three children graduating together.

The Di Corleto children from the Brisbane suburb of Ashgrove, Ellen (24), Luke (22) and Claire (20), will graduate from UQ at three separate ceremonies.

The eldest, Ellen, graduates first with a combined Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery degree at the 11am ceremony today (Friday, 10 December 2010).

“I started studying at UQ seven years ago and it was nice when Luke and Claire joined me,” Ellen said.

“It has been nice sharing transport to uni and although we have studied different subjects we have been able to discuss our studies and bounce ideas off each other.

“When we have had exams at the same time the house becomes very quiet as everyone is in study mode, which is good it means there are no distractions.”

The three admit to being very competitive.

“We like to do well and try to beat each other in everything,” Luke said.

“Claire and I are possibly the most competitive because our ages are so close and we always try to outdo each other.”

Claire, the youngest Di Corleto, says graduating at the same time as her elder sister and brother is a treat.

“As the youngest I have always done everything last, following after Ellen and Luke, so it is exciting, and a bit scary, to all be graduating together,” Claire said.

Both Luke and Claire will graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree, Luke majoring in anatomy and Clair majoring in microbiology.

The family is planning a big celebration after all three graduate and before Claire returns to work at Rio Tinto Coal and Allied Bengalla Coal Mine over the summer in the Hunter Valley and Ellen starts her internship at Redcliffe Hospital.

Media: Kathy Grube, UQ Communications, 07 3346 0561.