NursingLink

Okay, so I am starting college in the fall at Suny Canton, for nursing. The first semester I have to take Introduction to Chemistry, and Intermediate Algebra because I didnt take them in highschool. Becuase those are the two classes I'm taking at first someone informed me that I could take an EMT course the first semester. I have always been interested but with school never had the time to take the course at a local rescue squad or anything (and I just turned 18 iin february haha). But anyway, I was just wondering what you all thought about taking those two classes and the EMT course at the same time. I've had some people tell me go ahead, go for it, it'll be good! Then others tell me I'm basically crazy, I wont be able to handle it, and its not smart. I think it would be fun, and good for me. I mean by the time I have my RN I will hae had experience as a CNA and an EMT, and those jobs to fall back on during school. I desperately need help!

Thank you so much!

All I can offer you from my experience is a few caveats and suggestions.  Before committing to taking the EMT-Basic course (I am assuming that is the course that you are considering) on top of Introductory Chem and Intermediate Algebra - you have to make an assessment of your own study skills, time management, and commitment.  Recognize that Chem is going to require, on average, three to four hours of study time for every hour of class time; Algebra will take two to three hours of study for every hour of class time, and EMT classes can take that much or more, especially if you have no familiarity with the material.  Factor in clinical schedules for your EMT program - most will require a certain number of 12-hour EMS ride-alongs as well as other clinical experiences that fall outside of regularly scheduled class time.  Understand that you will need to invest in uniforms, some equipment, a BLS card, and professional liability insurance (which, if you are a pre-nursing student is a good idea anyway).

All of this is not to "scare you off" - it is to point out that taking the EMT course is a serious commitment of time, resources, and money - if you're serious about it, the payoff is potentially huge in terms of knowledge base, experience, and career opportunity.  Some states allow RN's with EMT certifications to 'challenge' the Paramedic exam and become certified Paramedics - which offers a huge field of potential practice for the dual certified nurse-medic. 

If you're just larking about with it, don't risk your GPA, and don't waste your time or money - let someone who really wants to do the job have the seat.

Thanks so much for the replies.

I realy have no clue what I'm going to do, its something I want, but nursing in iteself has always come first, I dont want to mess up my nursing by having an overload of classes...

Ill be back soon for more hlep I'm sure, I'm so nervous!!!!

Thanks a lot for the help.

I really dont want anything to get missed, so I'll probably end up not taking that course then.

My nursing is way to important to me to mess it up.

<3