Let’s give a warm “Spotlight on Seniors” welcome to Norah Farrar – Kettle Moraine High School of Health & Sciences!
Being a senior in high school while also studying to become a EMT can be both challenging and rewarding. Balancing the demands of high school coursework with those of EMT for firefighting while still in high school can be an excellent way to get a head start on your career and gain valuable experience.
Sacrifices are made in terms of social activities or other interests in order to devote enough time and energy to your studies and training.
However, the benefits of pursuing your passion for your EMT at a young age can be significant. You may be able to secure internships or other work experience that will give you an advantage when applying for EMT jobs in the future. Additionally, you’ll be able to start building a network of contacts in the firefighting community, which can be invaluable as you progress in your career.
Ultimately, being a high school senior and studying to become a EMT requires hard work, dedication, and a strong commitment to your goals. But for those who are passionate about firefighting, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience that sets them on a path to a fulfilling career.
Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I grew up in Wauwatosa with my younger sister Britain and my parents. My dad was a teacher at Dousman Elementary where Britain and I went to school. He now teaches first grade at Summit Elementary in Oconomowoc. My parents decided to move to Delafield, so we were closer to school. My mom works in HR at HSA Bank where she is incredibly good at her job and she loves it. As I said above my dad is a schoolteacher and is also incredibly good at his job. He really looks out for what is best for his students. My sister Britain plays lacrosse and loves to lift. We do a lot of activities together like swim, band, and other fun things. Together, my family loves to hike and travel. We have traveled all over the US and even to some European countries. I love my family!
What are your interests and hobbies?
I think when I was a sophomore in high school I truly fell in love with music. I am the drum major at KMHS and also participate in pit orchestra. My band directors at KM have pushed me to become a better musician along with helping me and supporting me in decisions that I make. I also love to swim and have been on the WNKM Swim Team all four years of high school. Before that I swam for Lake Country Phoenix Swim Team. My coaches were incredibly supportive and pushed me to be the best swimmer I could be.
Tell us about one of your favorite classes in school.
My all time favorite classes in school were EMT and medical terminology. These classes were vital for what I want to do in the future and helped me get through many clinicals and ride along’s. Lake Country Fire and Rescue along with HS^2 has given me so many opportunities to help me decide what I want to do with the next chapter of my life.
What’s your least favorite?
My least favorite class in school was probably global issues. I didn’t despise any class in high school, but this one was at the bottom of my list.
Do you have a favorite memory from the school year?
My favorite memory from this school year was being able to drive to EMT with some really good friends. Rachael K. and I had a blast there and back every day no matter how that class or day was going for either of us. I think that is vital in high school, to have that time to just have fun!
What’s something you worked hard on this past year, a moment or an achievement you’re particularly proud of?
This past year I have truly worked hard on EMT class and making sure I retain all the information. As an EMT it is vital to know everything that is taught to you in class so that you can do the best job you can in the field, and I really tried to do that this year. Lots of study sessions and coffee shop runs for some friends and I, but all in all it was a super fun and helpful class. I also became the drum major this year and was the drum major when we took the band of 80 to Disney World. I felt super honored to be able to lead such an incredible band, and everyone’s hard work to get there really paid off.
What has surprised you most about school this past year?
Something that has surprised me this year is the commitment it takes to get through senior year. The end of senior year is probably the hardest part of high school, but pushing through it is super important.
What are you looking forward to in the upcoming year?
In June I will start Fire Fighter 1 class and after that will take classes to complete my Fire Protection Technician Degree. I am so excited to be able to continue my education and career in fire and rescue along with EMS.
What are some of your goals (academic, sports, personal)?
One of my goals is to become a paramedic. After going through EMT and seeing what paramedics do it inspired me to do that one day, too. I also have a goal of continuing my music career. Although I am not going to school for music I want to make it a goal to continue to create good music for people and just have fun with it.
What is something you are good at and/or enjoy doing?
I really enjoy playing the oboe. I’d like to say I am good at it, but you would have to ask my directors. Definitely a passion of mine.
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In 5-10 years I see myself being a full time Paramedic/FF on a fire department. I want to move west hoping to sometime get into wild land firefighting. Not in Wisconsin.
Explain a time you wanted to give up but didn’t?
A lot of time growing up and through high school I wanted to quit swimming. It honestly is a really hard sport and can be tough mentally and physically. My coaches pushed me to become better and better and the team supported each other, so that’s why I stayed.
What are your favorite memories?
Some of my favorite memories are when my dad, my sister, and I would do fun activities over the summer. With my dad being a teacher all three of us were home all summer, which made for some amazing memories.
Is there someone special who you admire?
Yes! Someone I admire very much is my dad. After going back to his classroom year after year seeing how he works with his students I truly understand why so many people love him as a teacher. He cares SO much about each and every one of his students. We are blessed to have Mr. Farrar as a teacher in the Lake Country Area.
If you could do anything, what would it be?
If I could do anything I would want to travel the world with some of my best friends. Something that is definitely reachable!
What do you love about Lake Country area?
I love the community. After coming a little later to the area than some of my friends, my family and I were pleasantly surprised to find a loving and helpful community.
Tell us one piece of wisdom you’ve learned so far.
Live in the moment.
Do you have an unwritten rule at your school that everyone follows?
The unwritten rule is don’t run to class.
What advice would you give to an incoming student?
I would say have fun! You only go through high school one time, make sure that one time is worth it. It is important to study and do your schoolwork, but having fun is more important sometimes.
A SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM NORAH’S FAMILY!
We are so proud of you Norah! Congratulations on a phenomenal High School career. We couldn’t be more proud of who you have become and look forward to watching you grow into your field. Stay true to yourself and know that you will always have our love and support. Surround yourself with people who will lift you higher and make your soul shine.
Love, Mom, Dad and Brit
