Scholarship Helps Aspiring Firefighter Launch her EMT Journey
When Paola Chaves responded to overdoses and medical emergencies while working for Seattle Parks—administering Narcan, performing CPR, and watching firefighters in action—she discovered her passion for emergency response. What she didn’t yet know was how she’d afford the next step toward her dream of becoming a firefighter: enrolling in EMT training. Thanks to the Medic One Foundation’s EMT Scholarship Program, that next step became possible.
Paola recently completed the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course at North Seattle College, a vital entry point for anyone pursuing a career in emergency services. For Paola, the course wasn’t just about learning new skills—it was about overcoming personal challenges. As a non-native English speaker, navigating medical terminology and written exams took extra effort. But she embraced the challenge with determination.
“I spent extra hours studying, leaned on my instructors for support, and practiced scenarios until I felt confident in my skills,” she shared. “This training confirmed that I’m on the right path.”
Throughout the course, Paola became a mentor to others, even encouraging her fellow aspiring firefighters to apply for the Medic One Foundation scholarship.
The Foundation’s EMT Scholarship Program supports individuals who demonstrate financial need, a strong commitment to service, and a desire to strengthen the region’s emergency medical workforce. The scholarship covers the cost of tuition and course materials, reducing financial barriers for those called to serve.
For Paola, that support made all the difference.
“The Medic One Foundation’s scholarship allowed me to focus fully on my studies without worrying about how I would make ends meet,” she said. “It’s not just an investment in education—it’s an investment in safer, stronger communities.”
Now that she has passed the National Registry exam, Paola is officially one step closer to becoming an EMT firefighter. She’s also looking for opportunities to give back by helping teach lifesaving skills like CPR and First Aid in the community—continuing the cycle of service and empowerment that helped launch her own journey.
Thank you, PNC Foundation, for your support of our EMT Scholarship Program.
Help train the next generation of EMTs here.
