Senior capstone

Firefighting Capstone projectJoe Henderson

My first planMy original plan was to go to Columbus State for their firefighting program. I toured both Columbus state and a fire station to prepare myself for this. These tours taught me a lot and helped me make a more informed decision.

Columbus StateI went to a seminar at Columbus State and listened to multiple speakers discuss different aspects of the college. I then spoke to some program representatives, including the rep for the fire program. We discussed the program and the options. He told me about the requirements and the curriculum.

Columbus StateAfter the seminar, I took a tour of the college campus. It’s a small campus, but it’s pretty nice in general. I was told where all of the classes would be held, told about each building, and was given a good idea of what a day in the life of a student there would be like.

Fire StationI visited a fire station right after their open house. One of the firemen gave me an amazing tour, explaining details about every single tool, job, and room. He explained what the life of a fireman was like, what it took to be one, and everything in between.

Fire StationHe showed me around their firetruck and ambulance first. They have a lot more different tools than I originally expected. He explained each and every one of them and their specific use. He also showed me the water hose controls and explained for the pressure conrtol works.

Fire StationHe showed me the different kinds of fire extinguishers and explained their uses in different scenarios. He showed me the different ladders and hoses that they use and told me about those.

Fire StationAfter the firetruck, we talked about the ambulance. He explained the process of medicating and saving someone while in the ambulance. There are so many factors and responsibilities in the back of that vehicle that it’s mind boggling.

Fire StationAfter the ambulance, he let me try on the full uniform and try walking around in it. It was big and heavy, but manageable. He explained how they kneel down on one knee and slide forward, slowly swinging their hatchet back and forth to locate trapped people.

Fire StationI was shown their living quarters and kitchen. I was somewhat surprised that they did not have a pole to get downstairs quickly. Instead, they had a door that led to a giant slide.

Wrap upI learned a lot through these experiences. However, I decided that this is not the path I want to go down at this point in my life. I discovered that it was much more emergency medical based than I first thought it would be. At some point I may go down this path, but for the time being I will be going down a different route.

My plans for the futureI plan on still attending Columbus State next year and earning my Associate of Science degree. I am then transferring to a four year college, most likely Ohio State, to major in Biology. After graduation, I am going to apply for physical therapy school. My current goal is to be a sports physical therapist.