Why do you want to be a firefighter?

To that end, you need to reflect on your intentions and really think about what has inspired you to choose this profession. Do you have childhood memories that involve firefighters? Is it a job that runs in your family? Did you want a job that would keep you active and in shape?

Your answer should also show that you care. It is good to mention things like the excitement of the role, but this should not be the main focus of your answer. Instead, focus the answer on the true value of a firefighter and the service that they provide to the community.

Talk about wanting to help others and being there for them in their worst possible moments to provide support. Talk about wanting to have a career that makes a meaningful impact on other people's lives. Show your commitment to public service and use specific examples that you learned in your training or in prior experiences.

A sample answer could be:

As a teenager, I was unsure of what I wanted to do with my career and what path I should go down. I knew that I wanted to do something important and something that gave back to my community. I knew a desk job wasn't the right fit for me. I talked with a family friend about his career as a firefighter and believed this job would fulfill my desire.

During training, I knew that this career was perfect for me. The thought of being able to save lives and to provide support to others during the scariest of situations is exactly what I want to do with my life. I know that this is what I am meant to do and how I am meant to serve my community. I could not ask for a better or more meaningful career.