What is an EMT as in profession?

I'm a Nationally Registered EMT: Basic (U.S. Air Force)?

• I have passed the NREMT in 5 weeks because I'm a 4N031 AFSC in the Air Force. (They condense the EMT program into 5 weeks) The training was difficult and rigorous, I'm very proud of myself for having gone through it, and yet, although I am now registered, I am aware I am not prepared mentally. I want to become a doctor, and I'm psyched that I have the opportunity to experience the medical profession hands-on by working as an EMT: Basic but I'm scared of not being competent. I'm dealing with people's lives and I'm afraid, but willing to work as an EMT. My compassion compels me. Is this a good start down my path to becoming a doctor. I've been doing research and I want experienced EMTs or doctors to give their opinions and insight. I need guidance and wisdom. I'm a lost lamb.. Thank you

• Answer:

  Congratulations. The course at Brooks always was a tough one. I'm an old Aeromed Tech myself, back when we were 901s. The first thing you need to do is get some experience under your belt. It's one thing to know the books, another thing altogether to put that to work on a living breathing person. You can volunteer to work extra duty in the ER in some places, to get the hands-on experience you need. You also should have continuous training, for upgrade in skill levels and just to keep current. I suggest you take the training when you can get it. You'll be working with doctors, flight surgeons, and a lot of other specialists. Take advantage of the chance to pick their brains and learn more. If you are serious about wanting to become a doctor, start there. Get your BS in biology and chemistry, and then apply to med school. The military does have it's own medical school, you know? When you meet the docs, find the ones who went there, and ask them how to go about the process. Of course you are afraid at first. Actually, I think it's good to keep a little fear. If you get cocky you get careless. Fear of that should help you stay motivated to keep current and trained. However, stay humble. You have the skills to help, but not the skills to save everyone no matter what you do. You can offer a chance at life, but you are not necessarily the one who makes the final call. That will always lie in a much Higher Power than you. Good luck to you, and I hope you stay excited as you are now. Set your goal and work towards it. Knowing you need to keep learning is a good place to start. Knowing that you don't know it all is critical. Knowing your limits is too.