Bond University medicine graduate Matilda Robertson may be the first third-generation “Bondy” to cross the stage of the Gold Coast university.
When Dr Robertson graduated from Bond’s medical program this week, she followed in the footsteps of her mother Petta Robertson, who graduated from Bond with a Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Arts and later a Bachelor of Social Science.
Mrs Robertson attended Bond around the same time as her mother, Janice Bradnam, who completed a Bachelor of Social Science, and was valedictorian.
But the family bond does not end there.
Dr Roberston’s aunt Jodie Bradnam is also a Bondy, having graduated with her PhD in Social Science, and later lecturing in the university’s psychology department.
Dr Robertson was excited about her family’s unique connection to Bond.
“It’s pretty unique to say I’m a third generation Bondy, and I don’t know anyone else who has the title. I know a few people whose parents have gone there, but no-one whose grandparent has also attended.”Â
However, Dr Robertson’s excitement was mixed with some sadness at the end of her time at university.
“It feels surreal that five years has gone by in the blink of an eye but I’m excited to see what the next chapter holds.
“It’s bittersweet to be finishing because I have made the most beautiful friendships during my time at Bond. Even though we’re all heading off in our own directions, I’m sure that next year will hold a lot of opportunity and adventure.“Â
Dr Robertson will undertake the Rural Generalist Pathway next year, a five-year course to become qualified as a rural generalist and a GP. She will begin her internship in Ipswich and has set her sights on a future career in mental health.Â
“I always thought I wanted to be a GP throughout the entirety of med school but over these past two years I’ve really gravitated towards a career in psychiatry,” she said.
“I might see how I can make that more of a primary focus in my career, whether that be through the rural program or exploring that pathway independently.”