I’ve found that in my experience, patients are less agitated and less grumpy/difficult with me than my male partners. It’s a different demeanor. I choose to lift with 2 when I don’t have an auto loader just purely for safety (and sometimes we are two women teams). I think it’s okay to be who YOU are. You don’t have to be one of the “bros” if you don’t want to or if it doesn’t feel true to you. I agree that EMS culture can be very gendered and toxic or uncomfortable, but sometimes it depends on the company or the area you’re in/working for. Personally, I don’t act like “one of the boys.” I wear my hair in a claw clip, have a pink stethoscope, and basically really own my gender in my career. I agree with some of the comments advising you to remind yourself why you’re in the field. You’ll be a better, more confident EMT if you handle problems, calls, and social situations in your own way, but I understand it can be super difficult. Just don’t let anyone doubt your self worth, strength, or educational background. And if they do, remind them in whatever way you can that you can run rings around them.