How do I become a firefighter/paramedic?
I graduated a year ago with a Bachelor's in English/Ethics, but I don't like the opportunities available to me. I realised I'm interested in medicine and I want to help people. I'd like to become a paramedic and firefighter to see if I could work in the rescue/medical field. Will people discriminate against me in this field since I'm a woman? Will other firefighters and paramedics take me seriously? How do I become one?
Comments
Ask a firefighter. There may be opportunities for you to train as a volunteer before you jump wholehog into the industry.
The greater concerns are not about your gender. The concern with your fellow firefighters will be if you have the skill, physical strength and maturity to have their back in a dangerous situation.
I agree with Miss V 100%. Gender is a non-issue. My sister is a Firefighter III, Paramedic, and Lieutenant.
Local community colleges often offer EMT/Firefighter classes. Stop by the local firehouses. Talk with them. They will tell you what the service is like in your community.