SUNY Canton EMS Membership
Students from every major are welcome
Serve your campus, build practical emergency-response skills, develop as a leader, and become part of a student team that makes a meaningful difference.
Meetings and trainings
Wednesdays at 3 p.m.
Miller Campus Center, Rooms 218-220
You do not need to be a member to attend. Stop by, say hello, meet the squad, ask questions, and see what SUNY Canton EMS is all about.
Membership can support your education and professional development while giving you the opportunity to serve others.
We invest in our members
Eligible members may receive campus-wide and EMS-specific scholarships that can help pay for part of their college education.
The squad also supports approved training and course materials. Opportunities may include EMT Basic, First Aid, CPR, AED, New York State fire-service courses, FEMA courses, and other professional development related to a member's role.
Additional member benefits
Active members receive SUNY Canton EMS apparel and gear as they progress within the squad, including items such as T-shirts, lanyards, duty jackets, and duffle bags.
Members may also qualify for first-responder discounts offered by participating companies and discount programs. Eligibility and available offers vary by provider.
Practical experience
Gain hands-on experience in patient care, emergency response, communications, equipment use, and teamwork.
Leadership and teamwork
Build confidence, communication, decision-making, and leadership skills while working with students from across the college.
Campus service
Make a direct contribution to campus safety and support students, employees, and visitors when they need assistance.
Complete the online membership application to begin the process. You may also contact SUNY Canton EMS with questions before applying.
Members can choose from emergency-response, education, event, operational, and support opportunities based on their interests, training, and availability.
- Current SUNY Canton students from any academic major
- Students in good academic and judicial standing
- No previous EMS experience, EMT certification, or healthcare-related major required
Applicants complete required background, conduct, reference, and academic-standing reviews.
- Respond to medical emergencies on campus
- Provide medical coverage for events and activities
- Help provide CPR, first aid, bleeding-control, and safety training
- Support recruitment, public education, communications, and equipment
- Assist with administrative work and squad projects
Members do not have to become EMTs or respond to medical calls. You may focus on event, training, education, operational, or support roles.
- Attend regular squad meetings
- Participate in hands-on squad training
- Complete orientation and new member training
- Pursue optional certifications and professional-development opportunities
Members are expected to attend at least 50% of meetings and 50% of trainings. Meetings or trainings that conflict with a class or lab are excused.
How to become a member
How to become a member
Becoming a member begins with an online application and a conversation with the SUNY Canton EMS leadership team.
Step 1
Submit an application
Complete the online application and tell us about your interests, availability, experience, and references.
Step 2
Schedule an interview
A member of the leadership team will contact you to arrange a time to meet.
Step 3
Complete the interview
Meet with the leadership team to discuss why you want to join, how you would like to participate, and any questions you have.
Step 4
Complete orientation and training
Complete new member orientation and required training. After successfully completing both, you become a probationary member.
Select a question to view the answer.
Do I need previous EMS experience or an EMT certification?
No. Students with and without previous experience are encouraged to apply. Training and responsibilities are assigned based on each member's certification, experience, interests, and role.
Can students from any major join?
Yes. Membership is open to students from across the college, not only students enrolled in healthcare or emergency-services programs. The squad benefits from members with different academic backgrounds, interests, and skills.
Do I need to respond to medical calls to join?
No. Responding directly to medical calls is only one way to participate in SUNY Canton EMS.
Members may become involved with public education, training, recruitment, event support, communications, equipment and supply management, administrative work, and other projects that support the squad.
Will SUNY Canton EMS pay for my EMT class?
Members in good standing may receive support for approved EMT education and other training related to their squad role. Eligibility, course approval, and the level of support are determined by SUNY Canton EMS.
What if I cannot attend meetings or trainings because of a class or lab?
That is okay. You are a student first, and having a class or lab during Wednesday meetings or trainings at 3 p.m. does not prevent you from joining. Those conflicts are excused, and you can participate in other squad activities when your schedule allows.
What is the time commitment to be involved?
Members are expected to attend at least 50% of meetings and 50% of trainings to maintain good standing. Beyond that, you can be as involved as your schedule and interests allow.
When can a new member begin responding to calls?
Members may begin responding after completing the applicable probationary requirements and receiving approval from squad leadership. Responsibilities depend on certification, completed training, assigned role, and current operational requirements.