Persuasive Assignment | Why You Should Consider Learning About HAM Radio

Learning about ham radio has broadened my view of many things. I have started to understand just how practical radio technology can be. I am also starting to see that it incorporates many different aspects of science and mathematics and that I could study this as a hobby for many years and still find something new to learn and enjoy. Amateur radio is also exciting because it is something that can be shared with others through teaching.

Emergencies & Public Service
What I find interesting is that becoming licensed in amateur radio can be a lot like getting certified in First Aid or CPR.  Anyone can learn. Many can also benefit from the knowledge, not only the individual.

To make my point, let me quote a paragraph from my study material.. the A.R.R.L. Ham Radio License Manual (Level 1):

One of the reasons ham radio is so valuable (and maybe a reason you're reading this book) is that hams are good at helping.  Communications is key to making any kind of organized effort work whether it's a small parade or major emergency response to a natural disaster.  While the day-to-day telecommunications systems are recovering, hams can quickly setup networks that support public safety and government operations. Why? Because there are lots of hams and we are skilled in basic communication techniques that don't depend on lots of sophisticated systems to work.

TOPIC: Emergencies & Public Service | Page 1-16 

You Won't Be Bored!
The book's author mentions that while employees, truck drivers and public safety radio users are restricted to only a few channels and a few choices in equipment, licensed amateur radio users are able to choose from several hundred channels and many, many different types of radio equipment. We have more variety and options available to us than other radio users.

You Will Stand Out!
If you want to make yourself stand out from others, do it in your achievements. If you enjoy pushing yourself and picking up new talents then ham radio might be for you.

Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Are you willing to make some time today to learn about something new and exciting?
• Instead of watching a boring re-run on television, a goofy video on YouTube or playing a video game for the umpteenth time, will you consider doing something great for yourself and for those around you? 
• Do you feel the need to "level-up" and gain a new skill?
• Do you want to meet new, clever people that share similar interests and yet come from many different backgrounds?

You Can Be Prepared!
 A leader that has influenced my life said, "When the time to act has come, the time to prepare has ended." 
This is such a profound statement and it prompts me to think:

What are my priorities? Are they what they should be?
What am I doing today to be better prepared to face and enjoy life tomorrow? 

I encourage everyone to make time to improve themselves and learn something new--even if it is simply for fun. Perhaps you will consider starting with amateur radio and seeing where it will lead you.