Joining UMass Lowell EMS
This page outlines what working at UMass Lowell EMS entails.
Regardless of what your certification is, you will need to fill out an application, be interviewed by the administrative staff, and then be hired into the position for which you have applied. The details are in the document below. You can also read a brief overview of why you should join today!
Application process:
We accept applications for both Cadet and EMT positions from any student who wishes to join our team regardless of whether or not they are a certified EMT. The interview date will be scheduled at a mutually agreed upon time.
Students of all majors and backgrounds are welcome and encouraged to apply!
whatWhat is a Cadet?:
The UMass Lowell EMS Cadet program is structured as a way to gain some unique field experience and practice while taking an EMT class. We will help and guide you through the class and provide test prep, as well as skills practice to set you up for success with the EMT certification exams.
Cadets have the opportunity to ride on "Cadet Shifts" with an on duty EMT. During these shifts, you will work closely with your EMT partner, learning the ropes of EMS, and responding to any 911 calls that come out during your shift. On these calls you will act as an observer and gain valuable exposure before even becoming certified as an EMT!
We do not require any experience to become a Cadet. All we require is for you to be enrolled in an EMT class. Not sure how to become an EMT? Read the next segment!
becomingBecoming an EMT:
UMass Lowell EMS does not currently train or certify you to become an EMT. However, there are multiple EMT classes offered in the greater Lowell Area for you to take advantage of that run during the spring, summer, and fall.
Did you know you can take an EMT class for no additional out of pocket cost, and transfer up to 6 credits to your degree? This is made possible through the NECCUM program, which must be accompanied with the appropriate form to ensure the credit transfer. More information regarding NECCUM can be found here.
You are able to take the EMT class at other non NECCUM schools/institutions as long as it results in you becoming a state certified Massachusetts EMT. You just will not receive the benefits from taking a NECCUM course.
advantagesAdvantages of being a Cadet with UMass Lowell EMS while taking an EMT Class:
Most students enrolled in the Mass. EMT-B course have no other affiliation with an EMS organization. If you are involved in UMass Lowell EMS while taking the course, you will be able to get field experience while learning, practice the skills you learned in your class with the necessary equipment and help at your disposal, and clarify any questions you had from the class. We also save you money by certifying you in CPR for Health Care Providers at no cost to you (EMT classes usually charges around $80+). The EMT's in UMass Lowell EMS often attend practical skill nights at the class and help in teaching. When your state exam approaches, we will hold a practice session with you in order to prepare you sufficiently (as it is also in our best interest to have you pass!). Being part of UMass Lowell EMS greatly improves your chances of passing the EMT certification exams.
emtWhat it’s like to be a UMass Lowell EMT:
UMass Lowell EMS covers all 911 emergency medical requests for the campus 24/7. This organization completely acknowledges that you are a student first, so whenever there is an academic conflict, school gets the priority! The day is divided into three shifts: 0700-1500, 1500-2300, and 2300-0700. While on call, you are required to be in uniform, in close proximity to your truck, on campus, and substance free. You are still able to live your normal life on campus including going to class, eating, doing homework, or sleeping while on duty. It is required however that when you are on duty, you must be able to drop whatever you are doing as soon as you are dispatched to a call.
You are dispatched through the UMass Lowell Police Department via portable radio. The radio has a “mute” setting that allows it to be silent until dispatch calls for an EMS response. You and your partner each have your own assigned vehicles. This allows for the two working EMTs to operate independently throughout the day when they are not needed for a call. You are required to do a full inspection of your truck and the medical gear inside of it at the start of each shift.
You are also expected to be at our weekly one-hour staff meetings during the Spring and Fall semesters. Again, academic conflicts always take precedence over our meetings.
As a volunteer, you receive a stipend for each shift that you work (keeping in mind that you can be earning this money while doing what you do on a normal basis throughout the day!) Detail coverage is also needed at numerous points throughout the semester for events, sports games, shows, and concerts. These events are paid at an hourly rate.
Continuing Education and additional certifications such as courses to become a CPR Instructor are offered, as well as medical and driving courses to maintain your required certification, as well as increase your medical skill and experience.
Contact Us
Have any questions about becoming a UML EMT or Cadet that we did not answer here? Feel free to Contact Us for more information.