Studying at the Fire Academy

The Fire Academy is 18 weeks of intense physical training and classroom learning. Here are some study tips that can help you succeed:

• Approach the Fire Academy as an enjoyable opportunity. Remember how far you have already come and always keep your career goal with FDNY in mind.
• Find a quiet place to study that is well lit with minimal distractions. Also be sure to stay organized, so you know what material needs your attention.
• Keep good notes especially about numbers, facts and acronyms. Create written flashcards for the most important material or enter your notes into your phone, so that you can study no matter where you are.
• Use a memorization technique called “name mnemonics.” This technique takes the first letter of each word to create a memorable phrase. You may have learned this as a child in studying the colors of the rainbow, using the mnemonic “ROY G BIV” to remember Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, and Violet.
• Join or create a study group with your fellow Probationary Firefighters. Studying in a group offers exposure to different perspectives and ways of analyzing information. You can also compare notes among the group and make sure you haven’t missed anything.
• Make a daily study schedule and commit to it. Many people do best first thing in the morning. Read the most difficult material first while your mind is fresh.
• Ask questions in class and get extra help if you need it. You need to fully comprehend the study materials. Memorization is good, but understanding is most important.

Lt. Jason Anderson, Engine 29, Discusses Good Study Habits

Are you ready to commit to pursuing the career of a lifetime at FDNY?