Greetings and a question

[medichopeful]

Hi everybody,

I found this website recently, and it looks like a great resource.

Here is a little background on me. I am 19, in high school, and hoping to become a paramedic at some point. I am thinking of trying to join Boston EMS in the future.

I will be taking an EMT class and will (hopefully) be working part time as an EMT during college. After that, I am hoping to join a full-time service (like Boston). I have a black belt in karate, have been teaching karate for a couple of years, have umpired baseball, and have done an internship at my local police department (I originally wanted to be a police officer, but would rather do something where I am helping people all of the time). I have great references, and everybody has been very happy with my work. I am hoping to volunteer at a hospital at some point soon to gain some more experience.

Here is my question. What else could I do to make myself a more desirable candidate? I know working part time as an EMT will look good, but what else would be helpful?

For the record, I have never been arrested or done any drugs (besides taking brief sniffs of inhalants), so that shouldn't be a problem.

Thanks!
Eric

P.S.: I realize I might have posted this in the wrong section. Sorry in advance!

 

[alphatrauma]

If Boston is anything like my area... you won't need much at all.

If you are:

18 (some require 21)
no criminal past (felony)
EMT cert
good driving record


I don't see you having any problems affiliating/getting hired with an EMS service, especially if they take volunteers. You will basically be entry level, and I don't see Karate credentials or competitive sports helping you edge any other potential candidates.... but I've been known to be wrong (many times) before

 

[medicdan]

If you are:

18 (some require 21)
no criminal past (felony)
EMT cert
good driving record

I'll add one other thing to that, a pulse.

With all of this, you have a job in MA. do a search for descriptions of the companies.

 

[medichopeful]

Hmmm, the pulse might be a problem.

Thanks for the input so far.

Eric

 

[WuLabsWuTecH]

I too know little about the boston area, but at least in most areas, private ems companies are almost always looking for basics since the turnover rate can be high.

A good interview will make you a more attractive candidate. Also, have you done any college coursework (even at the community college level)? If so, that might help as well.