New Member in Columbus, OH

[jeffrobombero]

Hey all....
Aspiring FF in Columbus OH.
Glad to be here

[93Cobra]

Welcome! What area of town are you looking to work in?

[jeffrobombero]

I am actually waiting for my appointment letter to the academy for Columbus City. I took my psych last week, now I am just waiting to hear. I am starting to get a little punchy from what I've read on here from folks who got eliminated because of weird stuff with the test.

All the other phases, I got a call within the week, some times, the very next day. So, I am not sure how to take this. I'm probably just impatient.

I do not know if I should call them, or if they get annoyed by that.

So, it's a waiting game at this point.

[MOFF52]

Hello, I have applied for the 2011 examination. What was your thoughts on the multiple choice test and how did you prepare for it?

[jeffrobombero]

Man,
I took that test about 5+ years ago. When the economy tanked, they kept extending the expiration date on the eligibility list. Unfortunately, I cannot recall the written too well.
If I remember right, it was not difficult. You should brush up on your mechanical aptitude; especially with the workings of pulley systems.
Definitely pull down those practice tests that the CSC provides, though, they aren't much.
Go to your library and check out the career section where you can get those practice exams like (Barron's ?) I think they were. I got every single book I could find and took every test I could find.
I believe I also purchased some material from Captain Bob or one of those organizations. It helped a lot.
It's only pass/fail, so it really doesn't matter if you make it by one question or 100.
The harder part is the 3 minute step mill. Go to those practice sessions! The rest of the PAT stuff they put you through is cake, but the step mill is brutal.
Again, those are pass/fail.
The situational test with videos are the things to worry about. That is where you get banded. I was in the 80% band (I think I scored an 86 overall). The only reason why they got to me is because they kept extending that list. You HAVE to get into the 90 band - you have to shoot for that level. It is very subjective, so really prepare for that. Interview yourself in situational settings that a fire fighter might find him/herself in - on video or in front of a mirror. I think they are looking for integrity, honesty and a solid self-esteem and confidence and that is how they will rank you (possibly). I thought I did well - I am not sure where I got dinged that put me into the 80's.

Good luck!