I missed this thread when I first found this site. I got into this because the local service was running a class that sounded inexpensive to me. $600.00. I thought having some knowledge of basic medical skills might come in handy, even at my age, if there is some sort of major event that shakes the nation. Yes, I'm one of those geezers that thinks things are gonna get real bad eventually.
Prior history, went into the Navy at 18, way back in 1968. Worked as an electronics technician. Rode a fast attack submarine, but decided I wanted to try something else, knowing I would have no problem getting back into the Navy if things didn't pan out. Got a job as a city cop 2 days after I got out of the Navy. Worked that for 4.5 months and got an offer from the Border Patrol. A no-brainer decision there since I knew all of my Navy time was going to count. Did Border Patrol for 3 years and jumped over to Customs. Worked as a Special Agent down on the Texas border for 15 of the next 17 some odd years. Was shanghaied to work in Washington DC area for two miserable years, and got myself back to the border. Retired at age 51 with 32 years of govt. service. Had a business taking care of deer leases for the next 11 years and finally shut it down.
Took the NREMT and passed. Whoa! Now what? Started volunteering locally and will probably start working full time next month.
Career plans. Goal is maybe Advanced EMT, not sure I'll last long enough to seriously look at being a Paramedic.
Great site, I'm learning more being here.