Automatic disqualifications for becoming a paramedic

I was charged in february with a dwi.. and recently decided what i wanted to do with my life.. a little too late of course.
I read that it will stay on my record for 10 years. Would it be possible to become a paramedic with this on my record? If not how long would it be before i could have a profession as such?

Thanks for all input

First and foremost, I commend you for trying to turn your life around and better yourself, and going back to college is a great way to do that!

Now in regards to your specific question. I will first say that I live in NY and not Michigan, so realize that what I say is in regards to my experience and knowledge of NY and some what national regulations, and that each state is different. I will say right off the bat, that you best bet to get an answer is to go to your local Paramedic program director and/or county EMS director and talk to them and see what they say. They will know both the national, state, and local regulations and restrictions that would apply to your situation best.

I unfortunately do not see very much hope for you in the near future, and only see a small glimmer of hope down the road. I say this because EMS professionals are expected to and looked upon to be extremely strong role models and are often expected to live their lives in a manner above typical expectations. We are constantly under scrutiny and even a small slip up can undermine our system and cause us to lose everything we have worked for. As long as that DWI is on your record visibly you are going to have a lot of trouble convincing a Paramedic program to accept you because they see you as a liability and risk. They see that as a lack of respect and appreciation for the lives of others, and no offense its kind of true. Realize I am not passing judgement on you, but in getting in that car while you were drunk you put everyone around you in grave danger, and acted in a selfish manner at the expense of others. These are unacceptable qualities in an EMS professional since we have to put others before ourselves EVERY TIME! Also even if you were to some how get into that program you will have a 99% chance of never getting hired or even getting accepted to a volunteer agency since 1. 99% of insurance companies would not be willing to cover you since you are considered a high liability.

and 2. I have yet to run across an EMS agency that allows acceptance of an applicant or hiring of an applicant that has a felony background. As I said we are constantly under scrutiny, and our companies keep an eye on our actions, should we be charged with a felony we are automatically terminated, and face a medical review board for revocation of our license to practice EMS, and any other type of crime below a felony will warrent an investigation and company board meeting to discuss disciplinary action up to and possibly including termination and possibly medical review board license revocation review! Our records are more or less under a magnifying glass, we even have to report traffic infractions, and if we don't report to our supervisor we risk being hand a disciplinary action!
Realize I am not saying not to try, and not to ask questions! Please go to your EMS Director of the County and/or the local paramedic program director and see what is up! I really do wish you the best of luck, and should this plan fall through dont give up, pick up the pieces reevaluate and do your best! There are hundreds of possible majors out there!

Thanks soooo much for your words and for taking the time to put all that in there. I will definitely go talk to one of the directors, atleast to see what I might be able to possibly do. Im the worst procrastinator.. or else id be well on my way instead up trying to get back on my feet. No offense taken to anything. I know I did wrong and dont want, nor accept or expect any empathy from anybody. Just hoping I can make my way back up and do something good while im here.
It was great to get a fresh and HONEST opinion. Thanks for all your wishes and the best to you :)

i wish to take the EMT training courses in the boston area , but back in 1995 i got into some trouble with the law concerning drugs. I was sent to the county house of corrections in 1996 for 3 months. however , i have turned my life around . I was wondering what the chances of getting hired are(if theres even a chance) for i have not read anything anywhere stating that would disqualify me from this profession . Have i just not looked everywhere or is that something they take into consideration , considering the offense took place , so long ago? thank you for your response .

wow, a very thought out and informative response. kudos. :)

gbc5452... thanks i hate to ever tell someone that they are not likely be successful in the EMS career field because it takes a certain kind of person to even consider it and they are few and far between. I always try to give as much information and background and supporting information when I reply to someone's post because otherwise I am not being of any help.
I appreciate your kudos! :)
I see your in binghamton as well...are you in EMS as well?

no but i am considering taking some medical courses either this fall or in the spring. i have a few friends who went through EMS training or whatever it's called, i don't know, and one of them has to wait for the same reason of having a felony (minor one but still a felony). im mainly going for a music degree towards education to become a teacher but i want/ qam required to have a few med and psych courses under my belt too. but yeah, definite kudos which you deserve because you really hit the nail. was like reading a pamphlet (compliment lol)

lol... i try... lol :)
well the EMT-B training is a great choice for a med course!
are you going to BCC?
email me at outman_assocpress@yahoo.com so we can exchange facebook and aim sn's ok?

bleh :p

I am so confused!? Would you go to school Need Help!? Would go to school for PARAMEDIC or Respiratory Therapy?
I would like some opinions from people on the field. I love both professions. I have been in the medical field for ten years. I am CNA. Do not want be a nurse. I got accept in both programs and am confused.
I do not know which one to choose. I have been looking at jobs outlooks and all that...but am still undecided..I need make decision by next week.. I live in NC so both profession pay almost the same. It depends what I want and look for...My final goal is to be a Physician Assistant ...they have some bridge programs... but for now, I need to decide what path should I go.
Please, any paramedic or RRTs ..if you can enlight my way ...I would appreciate! THank you much!

Personally if I had the option between paramedic or respiratory therapist I would go with RRT hands down every time! As much as I love EMS, and I am in the Paramedic program right now, working in the hospital setting is so much better than out on the streets. Also RRT's do get paid more, and have a stronger chance of getting into a PA program.

Tatty in Sanford, North Carolina said: I am so confused!? Would you go to school Need Help!? Would go to school for PARAMEDIC or Respiratory Therapy?
I would like some opinions from people on the field. I love both professions. I have been in the medical field for ten years. I am CNA. Do not want be a nurse. I got accept in both programs and am confused.
I do not know which one to choose. I have been looking at jobs outlooks and all that...but am still undecided..I need make decision by next week.. I live in NC so both profession pay almost the same. It depends what I want and look for...My final goal is to be a Physician Assistant ...they have some bridge programs... but for now, I need to decide what path should I go.
Please, any paramedic or RRTs ..if you can enlight my way ...I would appreciate! THank you much!

Why are you confused? I am a 20 year EMT-Paramedic, and am an EMS educator, perhaps I can help.

TO : Cory Spankowski in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Oh, thank you for any help! I love the EMT. I am just scared regarding the job outlook and pay. People keep putting the EMT career down but I know I can be very good at...I have lots of skills ..I know a lot about meds and anatomy & physiology...
What are your overview regarding your career. I know every profession has pros and cos...they have bunch of bridges programs here for Bachelors in EMS and PA schools.
I am just kind of worried with the pay and been a women on EMS.
I will talk to my advisor MOnday and by Tuesday I need to give them my decision. It is kinda of though for me but am doing lots of research. Google jobs in my area and all that. I have been in various scenarios ofthe healthcare industry and it is time to grown..I am 28 yrs old and feeling that with all the classes that I have under my belt is time to do something else besides CNA.
Thank you so much for being so kind!

Hello there. Well, here's what I think. I've been in EMS, both in the field and in education, for 20 years. In those 20 years I've spent half as an EMT. Granted, EMS will not make you rich; however, when my wife and I were both full time in EMS, that's when we were the HAPEST with our careers and that's when we made the MOST INCOME. As strange as that may sound, that's the scoop. EMS will always be in my (our) blood. I've also known many others in EMS who've had degrees in other professions (biology, criminology, etc.), and who could have made ALOT more money in those respective careers. However, the common reply I've heard when I've asked why those people chose EMS versus other careers was that they had a chance to make a difference in someone's life when it mattered the most. In someone's darkest hour, when NO ONE else can help, they call US. They call US to come into THEIR home during these times to help them. With that being said, I personally couldn't find another career that could come even close to comparing to that in terms of personal satisfaction. Remember, money really canNOT buy happiness. I've been the happiest when I've been in my rig cruising the streets, meeting all different kinds of people...and making a difference.

So, I hope that I've shed some insight on EMS, at least from my point of view. And when our bodies become too beaten and battered from this wonderous career, there ARE bridge courses that can take one into a parallel career (nursing, respiratory therapy, etc.).

Anyway, I hope this helps. Let me know what you think. In the mean time, think about what I've said...really take it to heart. I think you'll make the right decision.

Take care,

Cory-

Tatty in Sanford, North Carolina said: TO : Cory Spankowski in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Oh, thank you for any help! I love the EMT . I am just scared regarding the job outlook and pay. People keep putting the EMT career down but I know I can be very good at...I have lots of skills ..I know a lot about meds and anatomy & physiology...
What are your overview regarding your career. I know every profession has pros and cos...they have bunch of bridges programs here for Bachelors in EMS and PA schools.
I am just kind of worried with the pay and been a women on EMS.
I will talk to my advisor MOnday and by Tuesday I need to give them my decision. It is kinda of though for me but am doing lots of research. Google jobs in my area and all that. I have been in various scenarios ofthe healthcare industry and it is time to grown..I am 28 yrs old and feeling that with all the classes that I have under my belt is time to do something else besides CNA .
Thank you so much for being so kind!

One more thing... As for your concern about women in EMS...it shouldn't be one. I've known MANY women in my career with whom I'd work any day! In my experience and opinion, there is no "male vs. female", if you can do the job, that's all that matters. Don't let that affect your decision.

Let me know if there's anything else you'd like to discuss. Take care!

Cory-

Wow Mr Cory...Thank you so much! You are one of a kind...you said everything that I feel...I am starting the EMS program this August and I can go from there. I put lots of thoughts and you really need to go with the heart RTs makes only $1 more to start here in my state but am the kind of person who can not be bored...I always need action and ways to grow...I did some job shadow with the RTs at the hospital that I work. I like the career but it is very narrow.Since, I want to go to PA school the paramedic route offer more bridges here in my state. I really want get lot experience then apply to PA school. I ready have a bachelors in Health Sciences but can't do much with that just teaching at the lab.
I really aprecciate your kindness to answer my post!
Wish you a wonderful day!

Tatty in Sanford, North Carolina said: Wow Mr Cory...Thank you so much! You are one of a kind...you said everything that I feel...I am starting the EMS program this August and I can go from there. I put lots of thoughts and you really need to go with the heart RTs makes only $1 more to start here in my state but am the kind of person who can not be bored...I always need action and ways to grow...I did some job shadow with the RTs at the hospital that I work. I like the career but it is very narrow.Since, I want to go to PA school the paramedic route offer more bridges here in my state. I really want get lot experience then apply to PA school. I ready have a bachelors in Health Sciences but can't do much with that just teaching at the lab.
I really aprecciate your kindness to answer my post!
Wish you a wonderful day!

Hi Tatty,

You're very welcome. Again, with the difference in pay between EMT-Paramedic and RRT (and I am not talking any big difference at all), trust me, it isn't nearly enough of one to make the decision any more difficult. Go get your EMT, then EMT-Paramedic credentials...ENJOY what the career has to offer. Once you've felt that you're ready, apply to the PA program.

One piece of advice, if I were you I would see if any of the local EMS services have a RIDE ALONG program. I ALWAYS encourage people considering careers in EMS to ride along with an EMS squad BEFORE making a decision. The streets are NOTHING like the classroom/labs. It will help you considerably, trust me on this.

Let me know what happens!

Cory-

outma101 in Binghamton, New York said: gbc5452... thanks i hate to ever tell someone that they are not likely be successful in the EMS career field because it takes a certain kind of person to even consider it and they are few and far between. I always try to give as much information and background and supporting information when I reply to someone's post because otherwise I am not being of any help.
I appreciate your kudos! :)
I see your in binghamton as well...are you in EMS as well?

Wow! Nice...VERY nice! I am the exact same way. Like I just advised another reader, I tell people to RIDE ALONG with an EMS squad before deciding. THAT'S a surefire way of really mailing down the ins/outs of EMS. I've given people EMS journals, EMS texts, magazines, etc. Too many people go off of what they see on TV, and think that it's EXACTLY how it is, and that it's a "glorious" career. Let me say that I've not come across a more thankless career than public safety. So, what happens? These folks quick enroll in EMT school, find out that it actually is going to be a commitment, and either drop out or fail out.

Anyway, I could go on and on, but just wanted to drop you a "short" message. Take care!

Cory T. Spankowski, NREMT-P, LP

That's super true! Any career in health care takes a certain person to do it. I am seeing lots of students going to nurse school just because they think they will find a job but they do not have the skills to do it. I have been in the scene as a CNA for ten years and know my skills. I love the industry but isn't because of money or position . I love to help people ! Thanks for the wonderful advices!

Mr Cory

Thank you so much for your expertise! I contacted my local EMS and they have a ontract with the college that I attend...I did not know that. They have a ride along program that I can spend two weeks with them. That' so awesome! I am very excited that I will have the oppportunitty to experience the real deal. I sign up today and will start next Friday the 20th. The EMS chief was super nice! i really appreciate your tip like this I can have inside scoop in what my career will be.
I will be more comfortable in my decision!
Please, keep in touch in the FORUM you are super! Thanks!

Hi Tatty,

I am so very glad that you were able to get in on a ride along, trust me, you'll enjoy it. The important part is that you're going to get an intimate look at your future career, something that most people do NOT get a chance to do. So, have fun on your ride along. A few tips:

1) TAKE NOTES. This will not only create a journal of your time there, but will also show the EMS service and the school that you're taking an active role in your future career, they'll see that you are very serious about your future...and EMS.

2) ASK QUESTIONS. I enjoy people who ride along, it makes me feel good that those folks actually take an interest in what we (EMS) do, and if they were doing it for their schooling, it allowed me to share what I know in order to enlighten them on their future career. HOWEVER, it was the QUIET ride along who never benefitted from the whole experience. Why? Because I didn't allow him/her back! Silence, in my opinion, shows me that, for whatever reason, their interest just isn't at the level that it should be. Remember, an EMT/Paramedic really needs to be a "vocal", outgoing person. Besides, if you don't ask questions, there may be alot of questions throughout the experience that you may have wanted answers for...but never bothered to ask.

3) APPRECIATE. Be sure to thank the chief of the EMS department, as well as the crew(s) with whom you rode. This will go a long way... Taking people on ride alongs can be risky. Not only does the crew look out for their safety and that of the patients' in their care, but now they have to look out for yours too. Ensure that the EMS crews' efforts have not gone unappreciated. Like I said, how many prospective career-seekers get to actually go "behind the scenes" for any amount of time BEFORE they even start school?

4) THINK! Go through your notes/journal, and start thinking about your future career! Have fun, and let me know how things go!

Cory-

Super thanks, Mr Cory!

Yes, For sure I will take notes and will pay attention at every detail. I will ask questions when am in doubt. I love to talk but I know when to talk. I have been in this medical field for too long now.And I am someone who really appreciate the opportunities in life. It has been a struggle for me to go back to school but am doing it no matter how many obstacles is in my way. I will keep you inform about my ride!I can't wait to start. School starts MOnday.

Cory - What are your thoughts/opinions in regards to; NREMT and the fact that I have an expunged felony (grand theft) back in 2003 in the state of California? I am currently testing around the US for entry level firefighting positions and most require that I become an NREMT within a year of hiring. Will this record also haunt me and if so for how long. I was told that an expungement would help my chances but being hired as a firefighter they might dig a little deeper. Would I be safe from state and local government inquiries or do they go all the way to federal inquires, then I might have some trouble. Thanks in advance Cory!

Darren G.
Huntington Beach, CA.

Hey Darren,

Well, if it was truly expunged, you shouldn't have anything to worry about. Let me ask you, are you already an NREMT, or are you in school?

In-so-far as this haunting you, it shouldn't, as that is the reason for expungement...having a case "sealed" or erased from your history. My understanding of this is that it really doesn't matter how deep an employer may dig, as expungement makes your record unavailable at the state AND federal level, so there should be no worries there.

As far as you're concerned, when you read the question on an application "Where you ever CONVICTED of a felony?", you can honestly, truthfully, and legally answer "NO". This applies across the board on any application, from the NREMT to any fire/EMS position.

I hope this helps. My recommendation: Go and apply to as many positions as you want to...worry free.

Let me know how you do, and if I can help you in any other way.

Cory-

Cory - Wow, that was a FAST reply and Thanks for your input! To answer your question; No, I am not in school or currently certified as an NREMT. The goal was to go back to school in the fall of 2010 but I finally got back to the work force (after being out of work for almost 2 years) and have been quite busy. When I enrolled (but had to drop) in the EMT course at my local college the professor could never give me an answer as to my disqualification (or not), but just continued to blow me off. I have been designing residential homes/commercial buildings for the past 20 years and was looking for a career change. This career change brought me back to firefighting, since that is where I started my career so many years ago in the service. I have continued to answer NO on all applications but it still worries me, I hear conflicting information in regards. The plan is to enroll (EMT-I) in the Spring of 2011 and continue to test all over the US. I am currently on the alternate list in New Mexico and I am still waiting to hear back from several states in regards to the written exam. I have Colorado and Montana coming up sometime mid 2011 as well. Thanks again Cory!

DG

Hi Darren,

I just happened to be checking my email, I usually check my email once every farmer's moon, but I've been trying to improve that (I'll put that on my New Year's resolution list). Whenever I get an email having to do with EMS, I'm usually very responsive.

I'm sorry to hear that you had an instructor that had little interest in you. As an instructor, I've always believed that my sole purpose was for the students...period. Even if I don't have an answer at the moment, all it takes is a little research. There is no excuse for an instructor to behave that way. In light of that, I'm glad that I was able to help you.

So a career change, eh? Good for you. I've met so many folks that have been afraid to change careers, either because they thought it "was too late" in the game, or because they feared what others may have thought. Stay the course, make sure that you don't lose the incentive. It's people like yourself that make EMS what it is. I've known way too many EMTs and EMT-Ps who really have taken for granted the opportunity they had to make a difference in peoples' lives. They already HAD the job and took it for granted, and those were the people that never impressed me. Here you are, 20 years in your chosen profession, and still you want to change over to EMS. That's just plain awesome.

Stay in touch, let me know how things are going, and please don't hesitate to ask me for any other help.

Cory-

Hello I just recently called about a training program for EMT,you are required to lift 250 lbs,you have to stay with the company for 4 years does this sound normal.I have been in the healthcare for 20 years do you think being in my late 40s will cause an issue Thanks

I am a student in school training to be a EMT- Paramedic and I had a theft charge last year. I stole something useless at a Walmart and regretted it instantly. I had it sealed from my record not too long ago. I have no other record other than the theft that was sealed. I am worried that ever though it is sealed and after I complete my schooling to become a EMT that somehow this petty theft (misdemeanor 2) may haunt me. Is there any reason why I should be nervous? Any thoughts on this at all would be greatly appreciated.

This link will answer a lot of questions regarding expungement for CA residents:
www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp/other/crimlawclean.htm#copy

Applying for State Licenses may be excluded from expunged cases.

hey, am sean and am 22 and i was thinking of going school to become and EMT and hopefully late advance in that field.. but my problem is i got lockup afew times for some mismeanors (fighting,tresspassin,and probation voliation)but never had felony or a dui andboby here cangive me the heads up on that please..? i wanting turnmy life around and am good learner and i love helping people in need..thankyou sean stne mountain Ga

Cory Spankowski in Milwaukee, Wisconsin said: Why are you confused? I am a 20 year EMT-Paramedic, and am an EMS educator, perhaps I can help.

I need help : Need to know Disqualifications for becoming an EMT Basic. In California

outma101 in Binghamton, New York said: and 2. I have yet to run across an EMS agency that allows acceptance of an applicant or hiring of an applicant that has a felony background. As I said we are constantly under scrutiny, and our companies keep an eye on our actions, should we be charged with a felony we are automatically terminated, and face a medical review board for revocation of our license to practice EMS, and any other type of crime below a felony will warrent an investigation and company board meeting to discuss disciplinary action up to and possibly including termination and possibly medical review board license revocation review! Our records are more or less under a magnifying glass, we even have to report traffic infractions, and if we don't report to our supervisor we risk being hand a disciplinary action!
Realize I am not saying not to try, and not to ask questions! Please go to your EMS Director of the County and/or the local paramedic program director and see what is up! I really do wish you the best of luck, and should this plan fall through dont give up, pick up the pieces reevaluate and do your best! There are hundreds of possible majors out there!

I live in florida. I am interested in taking the next EMT course. I know that you stated that felonies exclude a person, but what else? I have a misdemeanor simple battery charge that I was never convicted of in 2009. I also have some minor traffic tickets from 2007. Will this disqualify me?

I was arrested for aggravated assault. and on a separate occasion battery..this was about 2 years ago. As of last week, i'm a paramedic on a fire department....no i dont "know" people..fire departments deal with this stuff alot especially duis and dwis.i wouldnt worry about it.

i was convicted of petty theft and not knowing anything about law i didn't know what to do so i pleaded no contest. nevertheless i gave something away to a customer i know dumb but i was charged not too long ago and now i have a misdemeanor for petty theft on my record does this disqualify me from being an emt in los angeles california?

Hello, So 6months ago. I had Posted on here.. (no one ever replied thanks alot guys!) So To my knowledge and personal experience. Hopefully the following documentation will help you out.(PETER).
**(My Boyfriend is the one Applying to be an EMT. ) Knowing that if you have 2 convictions Misdemeanors within 5 years.
Thats automatic Disqualification. You can how ever have 1 misdemeanor, and still be able to apply.
My boyfriend had a misdemeanor when he was 18. Time passed he joined the marines.
was discharged medically. He went back home to AR to visit his family and friends. While at home he was giving a ride to his friend they were pulled over for a minor traffic violation. The kid he was giving a ride to had Marijuana on him. & Stuck it under the seat of the passenger side seat. Cop searched the car found it. & my boyfriend was cited for controlled substance. He had 6months probation & in the state of AR its a misdemeanor. After that he came back to CALIFORNIA. which was 6 months ago, When I Posted my last post. I researched Schools found one in Hawthorn. He went did the EMT course passed. got fingerprinted and background checked. Took his National and passed.
THE EMS agency took a long time to process his application. Being aware of the drug charge
They submitted it through the courts and the courts settled to have him an Active EMT - Probation.
He is to be on probation for 3 years and subject to random drug tests. Also having to notify his employer of the court case.
My boyfriend was hired as an EMT. on Thursday 3/15 worked 3/5, 3/16, 3/17, was off on sunday. Today 3/19 His employer asked him to get his "H6" so that he can ride in the ambulance. & the DMV STATE of CA. Requires another Fingerprint/Scan/Background check.

continued-*
AGAIN. Right then and there they said that they DENIED the H6 because of his Drug charge. This happened a couple of mins ago: 3/19, 12:17 pm.They said that he could not work in the Los Angeles County. WHY IN THE HELL would they approve him and certify him as an EMT and then DENY him WORK? Does not make sense at all. We are stuck in this grey area.
he is an EMT but Cannot be on an ambulance because H6 was denied.
SOMEONE PLEASE HELP. he just turned in all his uniforms at work
311mar@gmail.com

Hey-A DWI is NOT a felony!

outma101 in Binghamton, New York said: and 2. I have yet to run across an EMS agency that allows acceptance of an applicant or hiring of an applicant that has a felony background. As I said we are constantly under scrutiny, and our companies keep an eye on our actions, should we be charged with a felony we are automatically terminated, and face a medical review board for revocation of our license to practice EMS, and any other type of crime below a felony will warrent an investigation and company board meeting to discuss disciplinary action up to and possibly including termination and possibly medical review board license revocation review! Our records are more or less under a magnifying glass, we even have to report traffic infractions, and if we don't report to our supervisor we risk being hand a disciplinary action!
Realize I am not saying not to try, and not to ask questions! Please go to your EMS Director of the County and/or the local paramedic program director and see what is up! I really do wish you the best of luck, and should this plan fall through dont give up, pick up the pieces reevaluate and do your best! There are hundreds of possible majors out there!

Not to be a jerk, but a DWI is NOT a felony and you made yorself sound rather dumb.

MAR in Monrovia, California said: continued-*
AGAIN. Right then and there they said that they DENIED the H6 because of his Drug charge. This happened a couple of mins ago: 3/19, 12:17 pm.They said that he could not work in the Los Angeles County. WHY IN THE HELL would they approve him and certify him as an EMT and then DENY him WORK? Does not make sense at all. We are stuck in this grey area.
he is an EMT but Cannot be on an ambulance because H6 was denied.
SOMEONE PLEASE HELP. he just turned in all his uniforms at work
311mar@gmail.com

EMT's are also used in ER's. He can work in the hospital, he just can't work on a rig. He can also male use of his knowledge by continuing into nursing.

Could someone tell me I got i trouble for a DWI in Mass, when I went to court the judge gave me a (cwof) continued with out a finding. after one year my record will say dismised.Now it will still be none that I was in trouble foe this , so what im asking would this stop me from working as an EMT.

im from the bronx and a big supporter of the medical field. when i was 18 i was arrested for attempted sale on control substance and narcotic. im 26 now i been wanting to join a emt class to further myself inlfe. i am highly dedicated to the medical field where i have experience in c.n.a and services such as direct care counselors where i had to be responsible for other people. i dealt with administration of control substances and so forth. i am wondering if i would have a problem finding work once im emt certified once again im from ny and its bee more than 7 years.

Hi. I have decided what I want to do in life and that is to become an emt. My problem is that I was a group home kid with some drug charges and I also have two misdemeanor charges for petty theft in 08. I have already completed my probation and am in the process of paying my fines. I am also trying to get these charges expunged. I am having trouble finding out if I will even be able to pursue this career I have chosen. I know that I have to go through the background check and I am afraid I wont pass. Will my past bar me from doing my dream? If anyone knows can you please respond. I have already finished my GE and only need to finish the emt course to graduate; so if anyone can help it would be very much appreciated. I know I should have checked before I got so far, so don't yell at me.