Club Spotlight: Geneseo First Response
On Sunday, Feb. 26 I was lucky enough to meet with the members of Geneseo First Response (GFR) before their weekly meeting. These meetings are where GFR creates the schedules of who is on duty for the upcoming weekend, as weekday and night shifts are scheduled at the beginning of the semester, and even hold elections like the one a few weeks ago that has resulted in many incumbent leaders.
The goal of this article is to bring awareness to the completely volunteer-run program on campus that keeps us safe. According to First Assistant Chief of Operations Zi Chao Lin, one of the main “reason[s] we [were] one of the few [organizations] in the SUNY system that did not close during the pandemic…[was because GFR] provided…weekly pool testing procedure” for all on-campus students. However, Chief of Operations Madison Geddes would like the student body to know that the organization “covers any costs associated with Emergency Medical Technician [EMT] and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation [CPR] training as it is required if accepted as a member—but, they give you the skills to succeed.”
GFR never stops trying to gain knowledge about Emergency Medical Services (EMS). When I arrived, I learned that four members had just gotten back from a conference in Boston, Massachusetts—at this conference, these members were able to learn new ways to approach emergency situations and then teach them to their 50 current members.
When asked what GFR wanted the campus to know, the overwhelming response was to please apply! They are accepting applications until Mar. 3. Chief Geddes is “very appreciative of all the volunteer EMT students and is always looking for more people that are interested in joining so then they can teach them everything we [GFR] know.” Matthew Mcmullan, Squad Room Lieutenant, said that “the schedule is very flexible” with everyone’s classes and lifestyle, even though multiple people are on shift 24/7 while residence halls are open.
To me as an outsider, it was interesting to hear why many people wanted to join the campus first responders, whether or not they stem from experience. Julie Reagan, the Second Assistant Chief of Operations and the training officer spoke up immediately, as she is “very passionate about this line of work.” She has seen all levels of experience and she is grateful that she can help train those that might not be as knowledgeable and be there for students no matter the time of day or night. On my way out I caught attendant Mia Paone, who reflected on her time in GFR. She said that it was a “way to step out of her comfort zone” and that she has made some of the best memories and friends.
After hearing all of this information on this amazing organization that helps to save student lives on campus day or night, I am now debating joining! GFR is a great group of people and speak highly of their roles as members if they have chosen to take on an executive or crew chief role. You can get as involved as you like, and they believe that they can teach anyone the skills to be a great first responder. Apply today!