Newbie starting training in Tampa

[t_oliver]

Hi All - this is my first post on firehouse.com so I apologize if this is in the wrong place.

I have been interested in the fire services for several years now, and I finally decided to pursue EMT school in January. Once I am out of EMT, I plan on attending either HCC Fire Academy or SPC Fire Academy. I am 25 years old, and have held a steady job with a large financial services firm for the past 5 years. I will be working full time while I attend school at night and weekend classes. I'm already half way through my EMT book, trying to get a leg up before class starts. I was just wondering if anyone has any suggestions or pointers for me through school and when I get ready to start the application process. I am somewhat late getting into the fire service, and I know there are some younger guys that will be in the classes with me.

Any and all feedback is much apprecaited! Thanks for your help.

[DanTheMan_01]

You may want to check the Hiring and Employment section that would be the best spot for a question like this. I am pretty much doing the same as you. I am going to start my EMT-B course this spring at the local community college and plan to get the Basic Firefighter training that is also offered at Houston Community College. Both of these seem to be required by most of the smaller depatments in Texas. Don't worry about your age. I was concerned about the same thing, because I am 27, but I found a lot of people who are even older than me just now looking into the Fire Service. Other things I am doing to prepare are: Joining a VFD in my area, studying for the testing, studying for the oral board and the most important part TESTING. My first test is coming up Dec. 2nd. Good luck and let me know how it's going.

[IAFF01]

dont fall behind in class. Once you fall behind just a little...very hard to pick the pace back up. Read, Read, Read! Dont just have common sense...have good sense. Everyone has common sense. You will do great. Keep your head in the game.

[Chewy911]

Everyone has common sense.

I was actually Laughing Out Loud, when i read this.....this part belongs in the off duty section! lol If this was true we wouldnt have jobs right?