E MS Academy Instructor EMT Jozette Semper has been a member of the FDNY for 22 years. She became an instructor in 2005 and since then has worked closely with all of the training that is conducted at the Academy. Since she’s another awesome member that our current and prospective EMS Candidates should know about, we sat down with her for an interview just before one of her laboratory sessions began to learn more about her.
Join FDNY: Why did you decide to join FDNY EMS?
JS: When I had children, I told myself if anything ever happened to them, I want to know what to do. I started out by taking some first aid classes and I just fell in love with it. Even to this very day, when I worked 911 in the field, I still have letters from others who have thanked me for helping to save them.
JF: What drives you to come to work each day to teach your students?
JS: My love and passion for teaching motivates me to do my job each and every day. It started with the FDNY High School students because it’s almost like they are our own children. Knowing that you’re a part of their lives and the success that they may achieve in life is really special. When it comes to all of the students here at the Academy, we’re teaching them the skills that will help them be successful in the field and in life.
JF: What pointers would you give to someone who is looking to join the FDNY?
JS: You’ll never know if this is for you until you try it. The great thing about this career is that there are many options that you can choose from to help save lives throughout this city.
As we celebrate Black History Month, join us today in giving a tip of the helmet to Chief of EMS Operations Michael Fields, center, and, from left, Deputy Chief Kahlia Graham, Deputy Chief Arlene Simmons, Deputy Chief Mario Thompkins, Deputy Chief Horace Williams, Division Chief Cheryl Middleton, Division Chief Tonya Boyd, Deputy Chief Telina Lloyd, Deputy Chief Leonard Wright, Deputy Chief Terrance Middleton, Deputy Chief Renae Mascol and Deputy Chief Laitrice Edwards.
