Signing up to take an EMT class can be extremely nerve racking and even cause people to avoid it because they don’t feel like they can meet the expectations. Why is that though? A big part of it is the reality that as an Emergency Medical Technician you will be making a direct impact on people’s lives and with that comes responsibility. The other part is the notion that you may not feel equipped to pass the class, let alone the NREMT test! It can all be a little much.
During my EMT class, I remember leaving the first day already overwhelmed and stressed with the same concerns thinking “How am I going to pass this class with the rest of my life going on?”. The secret is . . . wait for it . . . hard work and determination. (You were expecting something complicated weren’t you?) The fact is, this is a certification course and as such the expectation is that students meet the required benchmarks. There is no easy way around it. If you call 911, you want someone that scored high on their tests and skills showing up to your emergency.
One of the biggest realizations in this whole journey is that YOU ARE NOT IN THIS ALONE!!! You will be surrounded with peers from all over Seattle and King County that are facing the same obstacles and will work together with you to meet those challenges. Understanding the element that you are now a part of a team is a huge step towards being successful in your EMT class.
The next expectation/requirement for success is that you spend the required time outside of class studying and completing the online curriculum. Aside from comprehending the material, designating the appropriate time to study will determine your success or failure.
What happens when you have to work or go to school during the day?
At that point, it comes down to not just the hour study periods but making use of the minutes you can spare between your other responsibilities. Whatever study method works for you . . . stick with it! But, also don’t be afraid to change it up if you aren’t seeing the results you were looking for.
Finally, utilize technology! We live in a tremendous age where information is but a few clicks, swipes, or spoken words away. EMTPrep is a great app to purchase at the beginning of your class and to use throughout your training to get ready for the NREMT test.
Having a good understanding of these expectations and how to apply them in reality will put you a step ahead when you walk in the doors to your first FIRE Tech EMT class! – Austin Allen, FireTech – Instructor/Advisor
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