Career Choice: Paramedic

Sometimes career advice is better coming from the people who actually do the job you might be interested in pursuing as opposed to information gathered by careers advisors. Taking this on board the team here at b**p have opted to quiz a variety of professionals about their career choice and how they got to where they are today. If you are interested in finding out about a particular career then leave a comment and we will do our best to get the information for you.

What’s the hardest part of your job?

Keeping myself up to date with constantly changing protocols, maintaining and recording my own continuous professional development as well as working on front line ambulances.

What did you study in College?

I completed a degree in Paramedic Science.

What made you want to become a paramedic?

I enjoy helping people and get a great deal of satisfaction from a job well done, often in very difficult circumstances.

How many years did it take you to become a paramedic?

It took me just over two years to qualify as a state registered paramedic.

Is there a traditional way of becoming a paramedic?

Nowadays you need to go to university for two years to study a degree in Paramedic Science along with gaining experience on ambulances with a qualified paramedic.

What traits do you need to possess in this line of work?

Compassion, empathy, the ability to study, a good memory, calmness under pressure and a good sense of humour!

If you wanted to move on in your career what direction might you take?

Opportunities exist to further my career in management, as an aircrew paramedic or perhaps in the future to work as an emergency care practitioner or advanced paramedic with enhanced clinical skills.