News / University of Bristol
Former student returns to graduate after 30 years
More than three decades after completing her studies, a former student has returned to the University of Bristol to celebrate her long-awaited graduation.
Bee Costello-Bates completed her degree in politics in 1993 but at the time was unable to attend her graduation ceremony as her father was unwell.
Bee had always hoped that one day she might have the chance to mark the achievement she had set aside.
That opportunity came when she reconnected with the university through the Bristol Mentors scheme and on Wednesday afternoon, 33 years after completing her studies, she graduated in the Wills Memorial Building.
Bee said: “Not attending my graduation ceremony was always at the back of my mind, and it was something I regretted not doing.
“Today has been a fantastic day.”
Bee collected her degree from vice chancellor Evelyn Welch on Wednesday – photo: University of Bristol
Bee since built a successful career in journalism and public relations.
In 2024, she was invited to speak on the University of Bristol’s student newspaper Epigram’s annual Women in Media panel.
Since then, Bee has been mentoring students at the university via its Career Service, which gave her the opportunity and motivation to attend her own graduation ceremony.
The Bristol Mentors scheme is aimed at students from underrepresented groups, and pairs undergraduates with alumni in their chosen career field.
One of the students Bee mentored was Holly Smithurst, who credits her guidance and encouragement with helping her secure work experience in journalism.
Holly said: “Bee went above and beyond to support me.
“She’s been a real inspiration for me and, as a result, I hope to undertake a masters in journalism next year.”
Bee (left) and Holly (right) at the Ludlow Food Festival where Holly gained work experience – photo: Bee Costello-Bates
Another student, Amelia Shaw, reached out to Bee after hearing her speak at the Women in Media panel.
Amelia added: “Her commitment to sharing advice was evident from our very first chat, and it genuinely eased my anxieties about entering such a notoriously competitive industry.
“Bee has continually encouraged me every step of the way.
“It’s wonderful to see her now taking a moment to celebrate her own achievements with the same pride and confidence she encourages in others.”
Bee said: “Mentoring Holly, Amelia and others has truly been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career.
“Through them, it’s enabled me to reconnect with the University of Bristol and finally graduate.
“I look forward to supporting more students in the future and seeing them flourish.”
Bee was a student at the University of Bristol in the 1990s – photo: Bee Costello-Bates
Head of alumni engagement at the University of Bristol Imogene Halsey-Dudley, added: “We’re so grateful to Bee for the time and support she has given to students on the Bristol Mentors Programme.
“These students are from underrepresented groups and often face wider challenges than their peers, and the help given by mentors like Bee is invaluable.
“We’re thrilled to hear that Bristol Mentors enabled Bee to reconnect to the university and ultimately led to her officially graduating.
“Many congratulations Bee and thank you for supporting our students.”
Main photo: University of Bristol
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