But for Adrian Brunette, graduating alongside his two daughters - Karlee and Kimberley - has been that little bit extra special.

On Monday, the 53-year-old former engineer graduated side-by-side with his 26-year-old daughter, Karlee, as they both accepted Bachelor of Nursing degrees.

But there was even more cause for celebration when Kimberley, 23, was called to the stage to receive a degree in physiotherapy with honours too.

"It has been a real family affair," Mr Brunette said.

"With the three of us being here today, it really is special."

The Wallsend man said he had been working for the family engineering business when his daughters began talking about which university courses they would like to study after the HSC.

"Kimberley had always wanted to be a physiotherapist, and Karlee has a very nurturing nature, so she fancied doing a nursing degree," Mr Brunette said.

"I thought, 'I don't mind that idea either', so I looked into it, and that's how we all got here today. All at once. It has been a real journey."

The three family members finished their degrees at the end of 2019, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, their graduation ceremonies in March had been postponed until now.

It had been a baptism of fire as they all worked on the frontline of a pandemic in their first year out of university, but Mr Brunette said he had no regrets about the rewarding career-change.

They were glad they all had the chance to graduate together on Monday.

The whole family was planning to have a special dinner at Honeysuckle to celebrate their achievements.

The Brunettes are among 550 students who will celebrate the culmination of their studies at the University of Newcastle's Callaghan graduation ceremonies this week.

University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky AO, said he was particularly proud of this year's cohort for their perseverance and poise while navigating the unique challenges of a global pandemic in their final year of study.

"Despite challenging times across the world, our graduating students have risen to success," he said.

"Our students have demonstrated resilience and an enduring commitment to their education.

"It is inspiring to see how our community, staff and students, have rallied together to support one another.

"Although this year's graduation ceremonies won't be celebrated at the scale of previous years, we are filled with pride for our 2020 cohort of graduates.

"We wish them every success for the future."

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