Ebony Hill’s journey shows nothing is impossible. She finished school after Year 11 and then became a stay-at-home mum to her four children. Now, a decade later, Ebony’s one of the first Paramedics graduated in the NT and in the second year of her Doctor of Medicine degree at Flinders University. Through her determination, she has overcome many obstacles on one of the most challenging and demanding career paths.
A Passion for Health and Community
As a First Nations student, Ebony has always been interested in science while committed to improving health outcomes for Indigenous communities. “Growing up in Darwin and witnessing the health inequalities firsthand really motivated me to contribute actively towards a solution,” she explains. This drive led her to pursue paramedicine as a stepping stone to medicine. “Paramedicine was a fun and exciting way to gain medical knowledge while engaging directly with my community.”
The Journey to Medicine
Ebony’s academic journey started in 2019 with a bridging course, followed by a Bachelor of Nursing. She then transitioned into Paramedicine at Flinders, completing her degree in 2023. Now, she’s undertaking the Northern Territory Medical Program (NTMP) with the goal of becoming a doctor by 2027.
Choosing Flinders was an easy decision. “Flinders stood out to me, not only because of its strong reputation but also because it aligned with my future plans,” she says. Studying in Darwin gave her the chance to engage with faculty and peers in person, despite being in a distance education program. “The staff got to know us personally and supported us through the challenges.”
The Reality of Studying Paramedicine
Ebony was part of Flinders NT’s first-ever paramedicine cohort. “We started with 16 students, and while the numbers dropped over time, it brought us closer together,” she shares. The program included intensive practical blocks, where students condensed a semester’s worth of learning into a week. “Despite the long days and heavy workload, the lecturers made it engaging and fun.”
Placements with St John Ambulance NT were a crucial part of the program. “Each semester, we completed two blocks of four 12-hour shifts, including night shifts,” Ebony recalls. The experience refined her time management skills and reinforced her passion for healthcare. “Going into Indigenous communities and treating respected elders was incredibly meaningful. There was never a placement where I didn’t treat someone I had a personal connection with.”
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Balance
Balancing study, placements, and family life was challenging, but Ebony found support through Flinders’ resources. “Having a 24/7 access to a paramedicine room, equipped with St John Ambulance gear, was invaluable,” she says. Support services, including mental health counselling and the Indigenous student support program, also played a key role. “The Yungkurrinthi tutorial program was immensely helpful, especially during my final semester.”
Achievements and Looking Ahead
Now focused on completing her medical degree, Ebony aspires to work in remote Indigenous communities. “I want to provide culturally safe healthcare and empower people to take control of their health.”
Her advice to future students? “Don’t be afraid to aim high. Even if you didn’t follow a traditional academic path, embrace your journey. Self-doubt is common, but it’s not a reflection of your capabilities. Celebrate small wins, find a supportive community, and prioritise your mental well-being.”
Ebony is proud to be part of Flinders NT’s first paramedicine graduating cohort. “Being the first Indigenous paramedicine graduate in the NT is an incredible achievement. I hope my journey inspires other Indigenous Territorians to pursue this career path.”
And Ebony’s ready to write another chapter of her story.