Ramrodthegreat

What do you mean by "write their own ticket"? How?

Hey guys, I am looking for a bit of insight and knowledge such that I can finally make a decision. I'm at a crossroads right now in school and need to decide my path. I currently attend UNM and have been informed that their programs in both EMS and Nursing are outstanding. That said, I guess I'm looking for a thorough list of current pro's and con's for both professions here in Albuquerque -- or at least some suggestions. I thank you for any help given and look forward to your responses.

Theres also a california forum under region at the top.

To those who answered with sincerity, thank you. I've gone through the posts and placed a thank you where appreciated. To those who claim intellectual superiority -- please do not assume so much -- I'm a college student and a number of us are in engineering. A few of my friends and I are new to this forum and are exploring the different aspects of healthcare. You can't blame us for our curiosity regarding the moderately paid field when every other post appears to be a gripe or vent. If I am a troll, then perception for you is obviously reality. I simply stated a curious question with an arbitrary understanding of the field. I'm no expert, I'm just curious and trying to learn. If you want a lesson in logic, consider taking some critical thinking classes (i.e. calculus).

Uh, no. I mean a 4 year degree. See: http://hsc.unm.edu/som/emsacad/alspage.shtml Subtlety? I fail to grasp how anything I said was subtle, but whatever. Anyway, to get back on track, I would love to read any other views/answers -- this is a topic of great interest to me and a few friends.

Hello again; I've seen a number of posts regarding this topic, yet I don't fully follow the reasons as to why pay is such an issue in this field. I've been reading up on information here for nursing, as well as a few other forums for alternative careers (Paramedic mainly). It seems that nurses are by far the most upset about their pay -- yet it seems that in most areas, the pay is better than average and superior to that of riskier jobs, such as the police force, fire dept. and EMS positions. Don't get me wrong, I know any healthcare profession has its health risks -- it just seems that the street is generally a bit more dangerous than a hospital environment. (correct me if im wrong). I know that the distribution of wealth is pathetic at best; with professional sports players making millions while you wonderful people dedicate your lives to something that truly matters. You should be the one's making millions in my opinion; but, that aside, is the pay really not enough? What specifically makes you feel that your pay is not enough? How is it different from, say, a paramedic? If it is really bad, then why do you stay? Also, I know most people here are nurses, but do any of you know why Paramedics (the ones that have a 4 year Bachelors degree) make typically around $19 an hour in most places? It seems almost unreasonably low.