This year, RMIT University will not only celebrate the graduation of its students but also the remarkable achievement of a father and son duo, both earning degrees at the same time. Tony Baird, who is completing his PhD in Engineering, and his son, Eric Baird, who is graduating with a Bachelor of Nursing, have taken distinct academic paths, yet their shared experience of studying at RMIT has brought them closer together, offering unique insights into the challenges and rewards of higher education.
Eric Baird, 34, made a career change after 12 years working as a chef.
“When the COVID pandemic hit in 2019, I realized just how burnt out I had become,” Eric said.
“The lockdown made me reflect on how mental health was affecting people, and that inspired me to pursue nursing. I wanted to help others in a meaningful way.”
For Eric, the journey to nursing was not easy. After completing his Diploma of Nursing, he transitioned into his Bachelor of Nursing program, where he faced the challenge of adapting to academic life after a decade in the kitchen.
“Learning how to write essays, understanding nursing formulas, and navigating academic research was overwhelming at first. But I pushed through by asking questions and advocating for myself,” he said.
One of the most significant influences on Eric’s journey was his educator, Kate Lamble, who taught him during his diploma.
“Kate was enthusiastic, kind, and thorough,” Eric recalled. “She made learning feel personal, and I carry her teaching methods with me today.”
But it wasn’t just educators who shaped Eric’s university experience. His father, Tony Baird, who was studying for his PhD in Engineering, was a constant source of support. Tony, a seasoned professional engineer with a Master of Engineering in Sustainable Energy, embarked on his PhD to further his research in sustainable energy storage technologies.
“I wasn’t ready to retire when I reached my mid-60s,” Tony explained. “I wanted to keep learning and contribute something meaningful to the field of engineering.”