As we leave a life of lockdown and I near the completion of my paramedic training, it allows for a moment of reflection. In 2017, I was a professional actor, carefully considering a new career path as a paramedic. A summer holiday in Gran Canaria gave me the perfect opportunity to deliberate the pros and cons of each profession. Every mealtime was dominated by debate and discussion. I had a deadline: by the time the plane landed back on UK soil, I would have made my decision. As I heard the screech of the wheels on the hot tarmac of Luton Airport, I made my choice. I was to train as a paramedic. That was almost exactly 4 years ago. Since then, I have embarked on an incredible journey.
I returned to college to gain suitable qualifications to start university, volunteered for St John's Ambulance Service and a local care home. One year later, I arrived at the University of Hertfordshire to experience the vibrancy of student life, the stress of assignment deadlines, and the excitement of ambulance placements. My life had changed dramatically. No more time spent on the set of medical dramas—I was in the heart of the real thing!
As we know, the life of a student paramedic is not without its challenges. The long, unsociable hours, witnessing frequent tragedy, and the unrelenting pace of the shifts can be exhausting. For my peers and me, the challenges of paramedic training were exacerbated by COVID-19. No matter how much research and preparation you undertake, nothing can prepare you for the harsh realities of the work. Witnessing the hardships of this profession has provoked me, on numerous occasions, to question the choice I made as the plane juddered to a halt that day at Luton Airport. Have I sacrificed a life of creativity for a life of burnout and stress? Serious doubts and the pressures of final year exams and assignments contributed to my feeling that I had lost my passion and confidence.
Fortunately, in February this year and at this low point in my training, everything changed. Our university organised a fortnight of simulations for my year group. It was an intensive 2 weeks, with over 50 simulation scenarios, ranging from social care to paediatric emergencies to mass casualty events. Paramedics from various areas of paramedicine were invited to run the simulations, creating an ideal learning environment to practise clinical skills, and it successfully reignited my interest and love for this work. It was inspiring to be surrounded by passionate professionals and students who had an infectious energy and drive to learn. Not only did I enjoy and benefit from being involved in the simulations, but I gained a tremendous amount from listening and contributing to the discussions afterwards. I saw fellow clinicians constructively analyse their performances, with a determination to improve future care for patients. They embraced the idea that knowledge is power, celebrating successes and treating mistakes as opportunities to learn and develop. It reminded me of the many reasons why I chose to change my career path.
Despite the difficulties I have faced by choosing to become a paramedic, I realise that these are not significant when measured against the satisfaction of working with those who are committed to the care of others. Since the fortnight of simulations, I have become more motivated than ever. I am back on track and ready to embark on the next stage of my journey.