Columbia University Health Services


Become an EMT

Information Sessions
During the first two weeks of each semester, CAVA will hold an information session for students interested in joining. For specific dates and times, please email CAVA.

Become a Probationary Member

Membership is open to Columbia University students. New members are accepted only at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters. After successful completion of a New York State EMT course and with a valid driver's license and CPR card, the applicant is eligible to apply to become a CAVA Probationary Member. Those interested in membership must attend the information session held during the first or second week of fall and spring semesters. At the information session, applicants sign up for an interview. Applicants should bring a completed CAVA membership application to their interview. Please note that applicants must commit to four semesters of service with the corps should they be accepted. Pending favorable review of the application, a brief practical examination, and an interview with the Executive Board, the qualified applicant will be granted probationary member status. The probationary period lasts a maximum of one semester, at which point the "Probie" is granted active membership.

On-Campus EMT Course

CAVA is staffed by New York State-certified Emergency Medical Technicians and sponsors an on-campus EMT course run by   Emergency Care Programs, INC. Classes start in the second or third week of the fall and spring semester. All those interested in the on-campus EMT course should attend the information held at the beginning of each semester. The dates, times, and location of the semester's EMT course will be announced at the information session.

Course Sponsorship for On-Campus EMT Course
Any CU student over eighteen years of age and with a valid U.S. driver's license is eligible to apply for an EMT Course Sponsorship. This sponsorship pays for tuition costs for the EMT course. In return for this sponsorship, the applicant agrees to interview for probationary membership upon completion of the class. This sponsorship application should be submitted to a representative of the Executive Board before the first day of EMT class. Anyone who does not receive sponsorship may remain in the class, but will be expected to pay the full price of approximately $900. Those who receive the sponsorship are still expected to pay for the course textbook and supplies. Applicants interested in sponsorship should attend the information session at the beginning of the fall and spring Semesters.

Reciprocity for Non-New York State EMTs

If you are an EMT from a state other than NY and would like information about obtaining reciprocity, please contact the Executive Board or see the NYS EMT Reciprocity Information page from the New York State Department of Health website.

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CAVA (Ambulance)

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Important Phone Numbers

General Information 212 854 2284
After-hours urgent health concerns 212 854 9797
CAVA (Ambulance) 212 854 5555
Rape Crisis/Anti-Violence Support Center 212 854 WALK
Uptown Campus Public Safety
 - On-Campus 7-7979
 - Off-Campus 212-305-8100