E- Portrait 3

Life Saver

Kyle McAvoy sits near the pool. Photo Credit: Dylan Speitel

Kyle McAvoy, a Rochester native, is a Junior at the University of Tampa. Kyle takes full advantage of the warm weather as a way to earn some extra money. Kyle is a part time Lifeguard, who uses his swimming background to protect others.

Q: Let's begin with some background information, being from Upstate New York a lifeguard is a bit of an odd occupation, When did you start lifeguarding?

K: "Yeah, Rochester New York isn't exactly a beach town so people always wonder how I became a lifeguard in an area primarily known for its harsh winters and endless amounts of snow. I guess it all really started when my mom put my older brother and I in swimming lessons when I was about 10 years old. I immediately fall in love with the water, and happen to be a decent swimmer. Once I entered High School I got my Lifeguard certification, and started working at local indoor facilities during the summer, and in the summer I lifeguarded at a local pool. Once I decided to attend the University of Tampa, it kinda hit me that I could lifeguard year round. So I have been a part time lifeguard since arriving in Tampa."

Q: What is the process of becoming a Lifeguard?

K: "It's actually more work than I think people would guess. You need to pass several tests, take courses, and work decently hard. The first thing was I needed to pass a preliminary swimming test to show that I am a capable swimmer. After that you have to take several lifeguard courses, I had to train several hours a week, and then eventually take the certification test. It was more work than I thought, but I believe it is all worth it."

Q: What is a typical day for your while at work?

K: "Honestly, since I usually just work local pools or gyms my days aren't that busy at all. We work in shifts so I am at the stand for approximately 45 minutes to an hour, and then someone will take over and I will clean up the pool area. Once I am off the stand I'll just clean up around the pool area, and make sure everything is in order. My days have been kind of slow recently because it is getting  a little "colder" in Tampa so less people are coming to the pool. Along with that I have been working less because I have a heavier course load this semester, so I don't get to work as much as I would like. Overall my days are pretty relaxed.

Q: What is your favorite part of being a Lifeguard?

K: "Other than the fact I get paid to tan? No, I am just kidding I would say my favorite part of being a lifeguard is just the opportunity to help others, and the sense of responsibility. I love being around the pool all day, and being able to give back to my local community. Along with that I like the social aspect of the job I get to talk to everyone at the pool, and get to know them on a more personal level. I don't know really how to explain it I just enjoy the sense of responsibility, and the chance to help others. I love being a lifeguard because it is something I wanted to be, I worked hard to obtain this goal, and now I get to do it for a job. A big part of my decision of coming to Tampa was the fact I would be able to work year round at a job I love."

Q: Okay, last question what is your least favorite part of being a Lifeguard?

K: "I guess if I had to say what my least favorite aspect is I would most likely say sometimes the job can get a bit boring. The job is extremely enjoyable, but when you're up on the stand for an hour, and no one is really in the pool it becomes a bit mundane. You don't what the job to become overly exciting because that means there are problems or someone is in danger, but at times it can get a bit boring. I guess it's like any other job though on the slow days it isn't exactly fun, but overall the job is important. As I said, I love almost everything about my job, but if you made me pick something I don't like I would say it can be boring."

Interview has been edited for brevity, clarity and style.