In today's tough economy, it can be difficult to find a stable job, especially without any college education. Many of us folks hold low-paying fast food restaurant jobs and we'd like to break out of it. Many programs out there, such as EMT jobs, can help you get a nice paying job without too much training upfront.
EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) is a position anyone can complete in only 120 hours of training. This is a very rewarding field where you will not only be doing a satisfying work but also get paid nicely. You can take a summer course and be on your way to a fulfilling EMT career.
The media often misunderstands the difference between EMTs and paramedics, although there is a clear distinction between the two. Paramedics are classified as EMTs and can perform all the functions of any level of EMT. However, an EMT cannot be classified as a paramedic.
A friend of mine got her EMT certificate and she is more than satisfied with it. She told me she's an EMT-II, which is a second level of EMT. Basic EMT-I's can only administer 40 different medications and perform minimal functions. After you have advanced to an EMT-III and achieve a certain number of hands-on patient interactions then you can advance to a paramedic's position. This position opens up more jobs, more patients, and you will definitely earn more money.
It's your choice whether you want to stay as an EMT-I or advance to a paramedic. If you enjoy more performing the most basic functions of an EMT and like the pay, you can stay at your current level knowing you can advance further at any time with little training necessary.