ENC 0020 CAREER ACTIVITY

BY

Robert Vesco

September, 2007

          Who wouldn’t like a job that provides endless opportunities to be called a hero? In a world where everyone seems to work just to get by, wouldn’t it be nice to wake up every morning and look forward to going to work? Most of society has become completely wrapped up in material things. Television shows such as The Apprentice, place the emphasis of a successful career on sacrificing whatever necessary just to gain more money. The reality is that society has lost sight of what is truly important: serving those around you and being happy with what you do. I chose to become a firefighter because I will be able to have plenty of days off and will be able to make a real difference in my community.

            Firefighters get plenty of days off. As opposed to working five days a week, firefighters work one twenty-four hour shift and then receive two days off. This kind of work schedule will allow me to spend more time with my family. I will be able to spend time with my wife and help her with household chores and spend quality time with my children. Furthermore, I will also have time to spend on activities I enjoy such as working on my car. This schedule will also make it easier for me to continue with my studies; I plan to work my way up in rank and to become Chief you must have at least a Bachelor’s degree. Lastly, a schedule with many days off will allow me to pick up a second job if the need arises.  Having a second job will allow me to bring home extra income so that my wife can stay home if she wishes and raise our children. The extra money will also help in starting a college savings account for my kids.

            A very important factor that influenced my decision to become a firefighter was the ability to make a difference in my community. As a firefighter, I will be able to save many lives. Whether it is rescuing people from burning buildings or attending to the injured after a car accident, being a firefighter will allow me to help preserve lives. Firefighters also help the most important persons in the community: the children. Firefighters often participate in fundraisers that raise money to fight off deadly diseases such as Cystic Fibrosis and Leukemia. They also regularly attend “Career Days” at elementary schools and help inspire children to work towards their future. Firefighters help improve the community overall by providing residents with a higher sense of security and serving as role models for children through their service to others.

            I want to become a firefighter so that I can have many days off and countless opportunities to serve my community. Firefighting is not an ordinary profession that simply yields a paycheck every two weeks; it is a way to live and serve those around you. I am greatly looking forward to earning the privilege of calling myself a firefighter.