Advice for an aspiring EMT/Paramedic?

[Seth_Martin]

So i am 20 years old and currently knocking out my pre recs at a community college. I aspire to be a paramedic and it wont be long until i enter my school's ems program. I have done plenty of research about the career and everything that it entails, and it has drawn me in like nothing else i have considered thus far. Furthermore, i have some strengths that would be suitable for this type of work.

However, what i lack right now is words of wisdom from those in the field, and if you guys and gals at emtcity don't mind, i would love to hear from you. Basically, how do you feel about being an EMT or Paramedic and what advice can you give me?

Additionally, i would like some feedback on some concerns that i have. I understand that this job sometimes requires fast decision making, and i have a low-average ability to immediatly process new information (revealed in an IQ test). This doesn't mean i can't make quick decisions, i just may not react as fast as others. Will this create problems for me in the field? If so, how can i overcome this? Given, with repitition and hands on training, I have no problem memorizing things to a second nature.

Thank you for any comments.

[NYCEMS9115]

Its about quick decisions but that's not what its all about. The decisions will quick and there is no way to simulate it. You just have to be there. You'll see it will all fall into place. Just read, ask questions, research, and ask to do more rotations for your EMT course. Once you finish and start working and/or volunteering and attending Continuing Medical Education (CME) Letures; you'll see if you want to venture into Paramedic Studies. Its not for all but a selected few. Be open minded; its not easy but the benefits far outweigh the risks.

I've been an EMT since 95 and a Paramedic since 98; I've been in EMS Mgmt since 08. I love the choice I made and I will be a spark in EMS change.... Good Luck.