-Is it crazy to think that I could be an EMT-B and even progress on to an EMT-P at the age of 33?
I am 27 and decided to start school this month. Yes, I thought I was crazy. I had a good paying business, but was completely burnt out so I finally decided to do it. My family still thinks I am crazy, but I don't care.
-Has anyone ever heard of other women my age starting this career?
Yes, me LOL
-Is there any gender/age bias in the field (or in school) that I should prepare myself for? Off the record of course.
I haven't seen any so far really, but who knows.
-The first chapter in my textbook states that I "should be able to lift and carry up to 125 pounds". I can do 80 so far, will that be a problem for me in school? I wont have my ride along until mid July. Im sure I can get there by then.
I would think that unless you have another physical problem (bad back, etc) that the 125 will be possible. You'll go over it in class so you'll know if you can do it.
-My school only does one 10-12 hour ride along at the end of the program. When you were a student did you feel that was enough in the field time? Do people ever get more time if they volunteer for it?
For my school, we do 3 rides, each 12 hours long...I asked if you can do more and they said 'no'. I would check with your instructor to see if they will let you do more. I'm sure if you really needed the exposure, they'd be happy to help.-
What is the harsh reality of actually finding employment (at any rate of pay), as a fresh EMT-B grad?
I will be waiting to see....I did several ride alongs before I started school and one EMT got hired right out of school, but many others can wait up to 2 years around here.
-Is there anyone else who has ever gone through my similar situation and is in California?
-How many of you went to a trade school (or vocational school) versus a junior college or university?
My class is at a community college. My local EMS puts on the classes, but I wanted the college credit and also they were doing a faster class and I didn't want to take all summer getting done with it.
Good luck with whatever you decide!