OP: I've wanted to be an EMT for a long time, but I made excuses for years. I wanted to share some of them with y'all; maybe they resonate with you, or inspire you to do something you've been putting off.
Hey this is awesome! I’ve also always wanted to do EMT work but gravitated more toward software in college. I really related to all these reasons. Especially the feeling coming up more when I’m dissatisfied with work. The main reason I delayed was because if I’m going to do it, I want to be a good care provider and it seems really hard to keep the skills sharp if it’s just volunteer part time. How do you balance keeping the skills sharp while working another job full time?
Also, I’m 38, so I tend to feel too old. But I just started a part time program at a community college. Worst case I just learn some interesting skills.
Anyway, thanks for writing it. It’s good know I’m not just crazy wanting to do part time EMT work and keep my software career. I kind of feel like an idiot sometimes when other people ask me why I’m doing it.
> It’s good know I’m not just crazy wanting to do part time EMT work and keep my software career.
Not OP, but there are dozens of us. If you might be interested in things like ski-patrol or guiding.. there's loads of related NOLS certificates besides WEMT / WFR for things like avalanche, cold-water rescue, high-angle rescue. It differs by location, but something like EMTB cert often requires a "intern" type of deal with ride-alongs and intubation IIRC, which may or may not be scary, but just the schedule of it can be harder for people with another career. Meanwhile your friendly local search and rescue may need help, and many of the more casual certs are very helpful, and knowing some of this stuff is just good civics.
Joining your local search and rescue/ mountain rescue/dive team/etc. Is an amazing way to have fun, learn. Lots of specialized skills, go places few others do, and help out your community.
Generally first aid/ CPR is the basic medical requirement, but they will teach you that. EMT or higher is absolutely useful though.
citelao · · focus · HN ↗
Because worst-case, you might enjoy it.
yoyohello13 · · focus · HN ↗
Also, I’m 38, so I tend to feel too old. But I just started a part time program at a community college. Worst case I just learn some interesting skills.
Anyway, thanks for writing it. It’s good know I’m not just crazy wanting to do part time EMT work and keep my software career. I kind of feel like an idiot sometimes when other people ask me why I’m doing it.
ianjbutler · · focus · HN ↗
Not OP, but there are dozens of us. If you might be interested in things like ski-patrol or guiding.. there's loads of related NOLS certificates besides WEMT / WFR for things like avalanche, cold-water rescue, high-angle rescue. It differs by location, but something like EMTB cert often requires a "intern" type of deal with ride-alongs and intubation IIRC, which may or may not be scary, but just the schedule of it can be harder for people with another career. Meanwhile your friendly local search and rescue may need help, and many of the more casual certs are very helpful, and knowing some of this stuff is just good civics.
jonah · · focus · HN ↗
Generally first aid/ CPR is the basic medical requirement, but they will teach you that. EMT or higher is absolutely useful though.