Frequently Asked Questions

What is SUNY Geneseo First Response?

SUNY Geneseo First Response is a student-run volunteer organization that provides emergency medical services for students, faculty, staff, and visitors of SUNY Geneseo. GFR is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. GFR was founded in 1974 and therefore will be coming up on our 50th Year Anniversary in 2024! All of our members are current or prospective New York State Certified EMT’s. We respond to all medical emergencies on campus.

How Do I apply?

Go to Join on the sidebar of this page and then hit the link and send in the application! We love seeing Lots of Applicants and the love for the Agency!

How do I contact you?

If you have questions about who we are or what we do please feel free to email esquad@geneseo.edu!

What is a shift like?

Shifts run from either 7:30AM-7:30PM or from 7:30PM-7:30AM. At the beginning of your shift, you will meet the rest of your crew at the squad room to discuss the upcoming shift and receive your pagers. During your shift, you are required to wear your uniform, remain on campus, and be prepared to respond quickly if you receive a call. When you receive a call, your pager will beep for a few seconds before telling you the location and nature of the call. At the end of your shift, you will return to the squad room and hand off your pager to the crew starting their shift.

What about class?

You can be on call during class! If you get a call, leave class and respond. Talk to your professor about this so that they are aware you may have to leave. However, we will always try our best to give you shifts that are convenient for your schedule. You will be able to request particular shifts, and request coverage for times when you cannot be on call (e.g. exams, other commitments, etc.).

How often will I be on call?

As an attendant, you will have a recurring shift once every two weeks and will be asked to take at least one weekend shift every month. This means you will have minimum 3-4 shifts per month. However, what you put in is what you get out—many members choose to work more frequently than the required minimum.

Can I sleep on call?

Yes, you may sleep while on duty. It is required that you stay in uniform, and make sure the volume of your pager is loud enough to wake you should a call come in.

How much experience do I need?

No experience necessary! Having experience such as being CPR/AED certified, being a lifeguard, or being a certified EMT are certainly beneficial, but GFR accepts members with varying levels of experience.

What is the time commitment?

GFR requires time and dedication. You will have to complete a six week training program when first accepted—these trainings can be twice a week for an hour or two, although you can come in to train as much as you would like. Once you are an active member of GFR, you will still be required to complete a number of trainings to practice and improve your skills. Within a year of admittance to the Geneseo First Response, you will also be required to enroll in an EMT course. First Response will help you to find a course near you during the semester, or even during the summer. Members are expected to take a sufficient number of shifts, and attend meetings every Sunday.