East Panhandle Times

When Zach Miller, a senior at Spring Mills High School, isn't focused on his studies, he dedicates his time to serving the community as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) at the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway in Hagerstown, Maryland. Since joining the fire company in December 2023, Miller has responded to numerous emergency calls and earned the Rookie of the Year award.

Participating in his school's work co-op program allows Miller to leave school early and attend to his duties at the fire company. His interest in medicine and community service began early. "I was very interested in the medical field from a very young age, and I was very interested in community service," said Miller. "I like to volunteer, give back to my community."

Miller initially joined a junior firefighter program and transitioned into becoming an EMT after aging out of it at 16. He completed seven months of training before earning his license by passing both written and practical exams. "It was a lot of studying for that written part, but it was also a lot of practicing at home," he shared.

His path crossed with the fire chief during EMT classes who encouraged him to apply for a position at their station. In Maryland, individuals can become EMTs as young as 16 or 17 with parental consent.

At the Volunteer Fire Company of Halfway, Miller is actively involved in running emergency calls and supporting various fundraising events due to Maryland's lack of a fire tax. He enjoys patient care despite its challenges: "I like the patient care a lot because it's very rewarding," he explained.

While acknowledging that being a first responder can be difficult due to upsetting situations encountered on duty, Miller finds fulfillment in helping others: "In the end, it's very rewarding because I feel like I've seen a lot of people happier after I've shown up."

Beyond technical skills learned through formal training, Miller values life skills gained from interacting with fellow EMTs and staff members: "I've learned to be able to talk to people... Now I'm able to treat them like I'm my own provider."

Looking ahead after graduation from high school this year; Zach plans on attending West Virginia University where he aims towards studying biology along pre-med courses while aspiring ultimately toward becoming an emergency room doctor someday.