News / Bristol
Tetraplegic student gains first class degree
Rob Camm was just 20 when a serious car accident left him paralysed from the neck down, just a week before he was due to start his first term at the University of Bristol.
But four years on, Rob has graduated with first-class honours and now hopes to begin a career as a lawyer.
“I couldn’t believe it when I saw my result,” Rob said. “I had to keep refreshing the student information page to be sure.”
is needed now More than ever
Rob used specially adapted technology to study for his degree
Rob used voice recognition software to dictate his university essays, while a special system called SmartNav enabled him to control a computer mouse cursor using head movements.
“Before the accident, I had always been the type of person who wanted to be the best they can be,” Rob said.
“Getting a first has made me feel that way again. I’ve put a lot of effort into my degree and I think I’ve grown up a lot during my time here.”
No stranger to a challenge, Rob became the first tetraplegic person in the world to conquer a Tough Mudder event in August 2015, using a special wheelchair controlled with his chin.
He has plans to undertake his third event next month.
Rob and friends after he completed his first Tough Mudder event
Rob collected his degree at the Wills Memorial Building to rapturous applause. At the ceremony, Rob’s dad, Ian, expressed just how proud he was of his son, and said his achievements were simply “stunning”.
Now more determined than ever, Rob has ambitions to become a lawyer, and has a place to study the subject at the University of Law in Bristol.
Rob has already undertaken work experience at top law firms.
“I’ve come so far thanks to the help of the university,” Rob added. “But more than anything, thanks to my family, who’ve never stopped supporting me.”
Read more: 22 amazing facts about Bristol Uni
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