Meet our inspiring alumni
Meet Erica
A love of health sciences brought Erica to the Bachelor of Biomedicine. A defining experience of her degree was working in Associate Professor Vicki Lawson's lab through an advanced pathology research subject: “That’s where I really developed my passion for neuroscience and research.”
Biomedicine also introduced Erica to a group of like-minded friends who have since become doctors, pathologists, occupational therapists and embryologists.
By the end of Biomedicine, Erica’s growing interest in spinal cord injury and neurodegenerative conditions had her considering either medicine or physiotherapy. When medicine didn't work out she pursued physiotherapy instead.
It was probably one of the greatest ‘when one door closes, another opens’ moments. I haven’t looked back.
Neurophysiotherapy proved an ideal fit, combining a fascination of the brain with creativity, problem-solving and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with patients.
Nearly three years ago, Erica moved to the UK and took a specialist role at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Trust Hospitals. An opportunity then arose at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery - this was a hospital Erica had previously hoped to undertake a student placement at but had been turned down because she was not fully qualified at the time.
I’d gone away, graduated and completed targeted professional development in neurosciences physiotherapy. I’d listened to what they had told me...and this time I was the successful candidate.
Today, Erica’s work involves treating people with rare and complex neurological conditions, collaborating with neurologists and developing highly individualised rehabilitation plans: “It constantly pushes me to think outside the diagnostic box, research conditions I’ve never heard of and be as creative as I can.”
Alongside patient care, Erica is involved in research and university collaborations and teaching. Erica has also volunteered at healthcare clinics supporting people experiencing homelessness in London. She is working on a meaningful project at the moment delivering specialist training to colleagues working in Gaza.
It has been humbling to reflect on the opportunities I’ve had in my career and to now feel equipped to contribute to physiotherapy and neuroscience education more broadly.
Meanwhile, Erica is nearing completion of a Master of Public Health, adding health systems and strategy to her areas of interest. In terms of neuro-rehabilitation, one area stands out to her is Robotics and AI where new and emerging technologies can complement the work physiotherapists already do.
Erica say there are so many careers outside the usual Biomedicine-to-MD pathway and advises future students to use their time in Biomedicine well.
Get a real feel for what biomedical science is about. Do things because they interest you, not because you think you need them for a future degree or career.
After several years in London, the next chapter is likely to bring Erica home to Australia. She hopes to find a senior neuroscience role that combines clinical practice with teaching and service development, while drawing on her growing interest in healthcare strategy. Her long-term goal is to help strengthen the role of allied health in improving patient outcomes, while continuing to learn as a clinician, educator and problem-solver.
And after a few hectic years of work and study, there is one other item on the agenda first: some travel and a well-earned chance to decompress.