If you want to be a paramedic, you have to meet this basic requirement for schooling. If you're interested in being a paramedic, you should study courses related to the field, such as anatomy and physiology. Once you advance far enough in the paramedic training process, take college courses such as biology and anatomy. If you have a B.A. or have taken these courses, you will have a leg up. If you're really determined to be a paramedic right out of high school, though, there's nothing stopping you. That's right. Before you can be a paramedic, you'll need to pass a background check so you can't have any felonies in your background. Being in trouble with the law for drug use or other crimes can keep you from being a paramedic. Paramedics need to demonstrate strong character and a respect for the law. This shouldn't be a problem since you will probably be eighteen or close to it after you graduate high school anyway. Though you can work to develop the qualities you really need to be a paramedic, if you have them up front, you will be a stronger candidate and will be more mentally and physically prepared for dealing with the job. Here are the skills that you should have and develop.  Compassion. You'll have to offer emotional support to patients in extreme situations. Interpersonal skills. You'll also have to get along with your fellow team members to get the job done. Listening skills. This skill will help you understand the extent of your patients' injuries. Strength. You'll be doing plenty of lifting, bending, and kneeling for this job, so you have to be fit. Problem-solving skills. The solution to a patient's problem won't usually be obvious. Communication skills. You'll need to clearly explain procedures to a patient and to communicate and give and receive orders within your team. Though speaking Spanish or another language that is commonly spoken in your community won't guarantee you a job, it will give you a major leg up in the application process. Many paramedics do not speak a foreign language, so if you're one of the few applicants in your area who speaks a language that is common there, your resume will rise to the top.

Summary:
A high school diploma or a GED. Have a clean record. Be at least eighteen years old. Have the qualities of a paramedic. Speak a foreign language (optional).