Ya Allah! I am at a crossroads and I am afraid to take the first step on the turn I know in my heart is right. It has been burning in my brain for weeks now: I want to become an EMT. I am a lover of knowledge, but in my bones, in my sinews, in my heart I must act. And I can think of no nobler profession than routinely pulling people from out of the jaws of death and giving them, by the grace of Allah, another chance at living. I am not spurning education. I plan, insha'allah, after I have completed EMT basic and attained the requisite experience (usually one year of practice, although in some cases it is less) to continue my training through the intermediate and paramedic levels until I attain a bachelor's degree in Emergency Medical Services. This plan of action would have the added benefit of having most of my tuition expenses (after the EMT basic program) covered by my future employer. Maryland, in particular, is having problems finding qualified EMTs, so I could recieve substantial aid while serving my home state.
Ya Rab, help me stand firm!