Stepfather is being discouraging

[California Dreamin']

I have applied to go to Paramedic School in September 2006. The deadline to apply is February 28 so I won't know until like March-mid April so it's really stressful waiting until then, but I have priority for being before the deadline of course.

I got a letter from the school yesterday saying they received my application and my stepfather is stuck in the stone age and thinks that paramedics are 250 lb. MEN who lift weights everyday. He has met some ex-paramedics (keep in mind they are also in a group for addicts). He also thinks they have "lousy hours, lousy pay".

 

[Boss_BlueAngels]

I'm sorry to hear he doesn't support your choice for this. That would be extremely difficult.

But, you have to do what you have to do. If it's something you truely desire, nobody can ever stop you but yourself. And I'm not agreeing (as I know nothing about paramedics), but even if they do have terrible hours and terrible pay it isn't the end of the world. That's why you need to be sure it's what you love. People are always telling me the same about aviation. It's true, but to me the pay level is not at the top of my list... the simple act of flying is what's at the top of the list.

So, do what you wish. People will ALWAYS say, " you should do this, you should do that" all your life. Do what you feel you need/want to do and don't settle for anything less.

 

[fishstix]

I have applied to go to Paramedic School in September 2006. The deadline to apply is February 28 so I won't know until like March-mid April so it's really stressful waiting until then, but I have priority for being before the deadline of course.

I got a letter from the school yesterday saying they received my application and my stepfather is stuck in the stone age and thinks that paramedics are 250 lb. MEN who lift weights everyday. He has met some ex-paramedics (keep in mind they are also in a group for addicts). He also thinks they have "lousy hours, lousy pay".

I know a few paramedics and none of them meet that description. One of them is actually a rather small woman. I don't know what sort of hours or pay you should expect, but people in most professions tend to complain about those things. 'Lousy hours, lousy pay' tends to be a relative thing. Sure, a paramedic may have lousy hours and lousy pay compaired to someone in profession X, but may have awesome hours and awesome pay compaired to someone in profession Y. And if this is truly what you want to do and where God wants you to be, then that sort of thing may not matter much to you anyway.

It is hard when parents don't provide support and encouragement. But ultimately, this is your decision, not his. If this is what you want to do and you feel that this is what God wants you to do, then go for it Also, keep in mind that there is always the possibility of starting out as a paramedic and using that as a jumping off point to some other career as well

 

[truckinnhorsin]

I have the same to say as everyone else. Follow your dream, and when you succeed, he will understand.

some tips though.. although you dont have to be abuilt man, strength is helpful, start doing some weight training andget on an excercise program now. itll help in the long run. (i personally do this just because, it has done tons for my stress level and its fun and i have more energy)

and make sure youre not just applying to one school, havea back up or two, just in case.


lotsa prayers that you succeed and reach your dreams

Teni

 

[California Dreamin']

Well, the strength part I have under control since I already do firefighting and volunteer medical response... I missed the deadline to the Paramedic school that's an hour away, but I have applied to the one 5+ hours away which is my first choice. There's a third one but it's in the city where I went to school last year, and I had an awful time.

The one 5+ hours is the only one with a residence and it just seems to be the best choice so it's my only one. If I don't get in, I am just going to go work.

 

[truckinnhorsin]

if you work, make sure to apply again anyways! to all the schools you would consider, for either january admittance (if theyhaveit) andthe normal time.


hehe oh ok -feels silly- sounds like you'll do awesome. i'll be praying you get in!

Teni

 

[California Dreamin']

The deadline is February 28 but I sent my application in already, early/mid November and they wrote me back saying they got it. Then I did up a fancy resume.