Maria Costa De Sousa, 22, from East Harling in Norfolk studied on a degree in sociology and criminology with University Studies at West Suffolk College.
Maria said: “I got a first-class honours degree and that made me happy and proud. I chose to go to Bury because it offered the degree I wanted to take and Bury is only about half an hour away from where I live – so it worked out well.
“The interest for the course started in high school when I studied sociology. Then, during lockdown I started to get into true crime documentaries so ended up combining the two subjects for my degree.
“My ultimate dream is to be a private investigator, but I know I still have a lot of work ahead of me to build the experience and credentials needed for that.
“So at the moment, that’s been put on the backburner. My plan is to work for the probation service. I have some interviews lined up.
“I’d say the university in Bury has a nice vibe – it feels cosy, relaxed and I enjoyed my time there. The teachers have time for you. It was excellent and it pushed me.
“In the future I would like to do a Masters at Cambridge University. You have to dream big. But for now, I just want to start my career.
“After this (graduation) we are going out for a big lunch, we are going to celebrate as today is my birthday – as well as being the day I graduate.”
