But La Trobe University believes more students are embracing the sometimes overlooked path and finding their education on the Border. 

Head of Albury-Wodonga campus Guinever Threlkeld said there were huge benefits in studying near home.

“You’ve got your local support network, the opportunity to build connections in the community where you might want to work in the future, you can continue to play your sport, and stay close to family and friends,” she said. 

Former Catholic College Wodonga student Georgia Higgins, 18, said she decided to study a Bachelor of Human Services and Master of Social Work at La Trobe because it seemed like a practical way to study but also save money. 

“I just came back from overseas and can’t wait to go back,” she said. 

“I wanted to stay at home so I could save and travel with that money.”

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Miss Higgins hopes to participate in a university exchange program and study in the United Kingdom during her four-year degree. 

For Xavier alumni Jack Sherwill, studying a Bachelor of Business Sport Management close to home saved him from stress and debt.

“It’s much less hassle, all my friends are trying to find a place to live in big cities and I don’t have to worry about that,” he said. 

“It’s the same education but I get to stay. I don’t have to worry about overworking myself in a job as well as studying, I can work to save money.”

Miss Higgins said many people consider it normal to look at universities away from home. 

“Especially here in a smaller city everyone wants to get to Melbourne,” she said.

Mr Sherwill said his course incorporates a domestic and international internship so staying home and being able to save money to support himself during those stints was important. 

Dr Threlkeld said sometimes the familiar could be taken for granted, with students not recognising the choices they had close to home.

“It’s a great asset for the community and it has been great to see so many local people applying and getting a place with us,” she said. 

“La Trobe is ranked second in Victoria by employer on graduates being prepared for work and eighth nationally.”