Tom Robson ('15) is a passionate advocate for equal access to healthcare, dedicated to serving remote and Indigenous communities. His work revolves around building meaningful relationships with patients, empowering them to better understand their healthcare options.
His commitment to making a difference extends to mentoring final-year physiotherapy students, helping them thrive during their placements. Drawing on the lessons learned at ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë—such as the importance of communication, effort, and seeking support—Tom has cultivated a career centered on compassion and community engagement.
What motivates you to do the work that you do?
I’m driven by a passion for ensuring equal access to healthcare for everyone, especially for those living in remote areas and Indigenous communities. My work allows me to form meaningful relationships with my patients, helping them better understand their healthcare and empowering them along the way.
Looking back on your time at ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë, what were the most valuable things and values you learned?
One of the most important lessons I learned was that it's absolutely okay to ask for help, and knowing who to turn to is key. The Tutor groups, led by senior students, provided wonderful role models who were there to support us with both home and school life. I also learned the power of communication.
My time at ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë taught me how to communicate effectively and respectfully with people from all walks of life. Lastly, I realised the importance of effort—what truly matters is giving your best, no matter the task. Effort is what counts most.
How did your education at ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë prepare you for your current role?
The discipline and respect you learn at ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë—whether it's something as simple as keeping a tidy uniform or showing respect to others—have been essential in my career. The confidence that comes from a solid education, paired with the understanding that putting in effort really makes a difference, has also been a huge help.
What’s your most memorable career accomplishment to date?
I’m particularly proud of the role I play in supporting final-year physiotherapy students during their placements. Each time I help a student successfully complete their placement, it feels like a win. I hope that what they’ve learned with me is something they’ll carry with them, whether they’re working in a rural, remote, or urban setting.
What advice would you give to ÍõÖÐÍõÁùºÏ²ÊÌØÂë students today?
- Don’t be afraid to give things a go! Mistakes will happen, but it’s what you learn from them that really matters.
- Push yourself to step outside your comfort zone. It’s different for everyone, but it’s how you learn what makes you tick.
- Life is a collection of stories—make sure yours is unique, not just a carbon copy of the person next to you.