When I came to Pima Medical Institute, I was a single mom with a teenage daughter. I had attended college in the past but was left with a useless degree working a job that wasn't paying the bills. I like helping people but don't really like to touch them, so the Pharmacy Technician program was a perfect fit for me.
Since graduating in 2014, I've held various roles within the pharmacy community; from retail, to long-term care, to home infusion where I am currently working. I am part of an amazing team at Providence Infusion and Pharmacy where I get to help patients that are receiving home IV treatments. I've also recently expanded my knowledge and have moved into a billing role.
In the seven and a half years since I've graduated from Pima Medical, I've doubled my income and have been able to provide my daughter with a life we would never have had before. We take multiple vacations a year, we have our own home, and we both drive great vehicles and she is working on becoming a pilot. We have a life we never could've dreamed possible, and I was able to build amazing friendships in the process.
Pima Medical was most definitely the right choice for me. Most recently, I've been looking into continuing my education and going for a bachelor's in Health Care Administration. I can't thank Pima Medical enough for what they've done for me and my family. I wake up every morning excited to come to work and help people. I love what I do!
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My journey into health care began with the encouragement of my aunt, Marie Defede, who worked in admissions at Pima Medical Institute's Chula Vista campus. Inspired by her support, I enrolled in the Medical Assistant program in 2002 and graduated in 2003, a decision that forever changed my life.
Shortly after, I started working at Scripps Anderson's Clinic in La Jolla as a medical assistant in the Sports Orthopedic Department. I had the unique opportunity to support the San Diego Padres Baseball Team. That fast-paced environment taught me the importance of clinical accuracy, teamwork and compassionate patient care.
Wanting to give back, I returned to Pima Medical as an instructor, teaching Medical Assistant front and back office skills, Medical Administrative courses and Career Preparation. Helping students grow was deeply fulfilling, and in 2010, I was honored as Pima Medical's Peak Performer for my dedication to education and mentorship.
My career expanded beyond clinical work when I transitioned into the biopharmaceutical sector. I worked with Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer, focusing on clinical operations, system optimization and compliance in regulated environments. Alongside my career, I advanced my education. I earned an Associate Degree in Health Care Administration in 2010, a B.S. in Health Care Administration in 2013 and then a M.S. in Health Administration. I am currently completing a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership, with a focus on inclusive leadership and healthcare transformation.
Today, I serve as a Clinical Business Systems Analyst, leading projects in organizational development, system implementation and process improvement. Beyond my career, I am a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ communities, patient rights and underserved populations.
Pima Medical was where it all began. It provided the foundation, support and mentorship I needed to pursue a fulfilling career in healthcare and leadership. I will always be proud to say my journey started at PMI.
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I became interested in physical therapy after my daughter experienced gymnastics injuries. I decided I needed a career change and started looking for schools. I chose PMI because I heard they had a solid program and would assist with job placement after graduation.
My major obstacle was time management. I had 3 children at home and was finishing my Master's degree in business at the same time. Open lab and staying after class cemented my bond with classmates and gave me dedicated time to concentrate on PTA studies. I appreciated the knowledge of the PTA instructors--they were all so helpful including making sure we had the hands-on patient skills and solid test-taking skills to be successful for our board exams.
I knew I wanted my first job to be acute inpatient care, but I didn't want to start working until I'd passed my board exam. However, I saw a job posting for UNMH so I applied three weeks before graduation. I got the job contingent upon passing my boards! I have been working full time at the hospital and am now teaching in the online BSPTA program for PMI.
Thank you, PMI, for the real life preparation you gave me. I have frequently heard, "Wow, I can't believe you're a recent grad!"
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I used to be a real estate agent specializing in short sales and foreclosures. As much as I liked the money, I was not happy with this career path. I worked 24-7 and never got to see my family and I needed to make a change. On my way home from a chaotic day, I heard a radio commercial for PMI. I went home, talked it over with my husband, and made the decision to get more information. It all happened so fast. After I enrolled, I went to my supervisor the next day and gave my two weeks' notice.
While in school, I had perfect attendance and maintained a 4.0 GPA. I loved being in school, although I did have challenges. I struggled with math but I met a lot of supportive people who helped me along the way. Some of my closest friendships were developed with people I went to PMI with. My instructors were amazing and I still have a professional relationship with some of them today. When I graduated, I had three job interviews lined up. I ended up accepting an offer at a podiatrist office where I worked for the next two years. In 2014, I accepted an offer with an internal medicine facility.
I have an excellent work/life balance and I am excited to go to work every day. I want to further my education to become a physician's assistant once my son is a little older. My husband is 100% supportive and I am excited to see what the future holds. Thanks PMI!
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I spent nine years as a helicopter mechanic in the Marine Corps and when I got out I began working at the local airport as a mechanic. I didn't really feel like I was going anywhere in my job, so my wife who had completed the Medical Assistant program through Pima Medical Institute, suggested I go there and find a career I enjoyed. My dad completed the Medical Lab Technician program years ago and my mom actually went through Pima Medical's Radiography program and is still working at Tucson Medical Center. So, I decided to see what they had to offer and signed up for their nine month Pharmacy Technician Program.
I loved the program! In the Marine Corps comradery is a big deal and I was used to having that close knit family atmosphere. I came to Pima Medical and immediately felt at home. My instructor was there to direct me and provide whatever I needed to be confident and successful. My training allowed me to easily transition into my externship at Tucson Medical Center and before I had even finished, they offered me a position.
Immediately after graduation I enrolled in Pima Medical's Online Health Care Administration associate of applied science degree program and have recently graduated from the bachelor's program. I have been able to work fulltime, spend time with my family and complete my homework each day for my online classes. The instructors are flexible and easy to reach for guidance and I've had a great experience. I almost didn't notice I wasn't in a classroom setting. I am currently a Pharmacy Tech 2 and, as a result of getting my bachelor's, I am being trained to cover and assist our buyers. I love my new career and it's very fulfilling! My dream job ... coming back to Pima Medical as an instructor!
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After attending university for a while, I realized that traditional school wasn't the right fit for me. I spent several years working in the hospitality industry in Las Vegas until a layoff pushed me to reconsider my career path. Instead of looking for another casino job, I decided to pursue a future in healthcare.
After researching options, I chose Pima Medical Institute and was determined to take all the programs necessary to obtain my bachelors degree. I began with the Medical Administrative Assistant (MAA) program, building a solid foundation in the healthcare industry. From there I enrolled in the online Health Care Administration (HCA) program, gaining deeper knowledge in the field. I ultimately completed the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration (BSHCA) program, which provided invaluable lessons I had never received in previous academic experiences.
Because of the intensive programs at Pima Medical, I was able to parlay that education and experience into a job at a home health organization, starting as a biller and quickly rising to the Director of the Billing Department. I later combined this experience with my hospitality background to land a job at Desert Valley Hospital, where I served as a Patient Experience Manager before being promoted to Director or Performance Improvement and Patient Experience. There I led projects to improve quality, reduce hospital-acquired illnesses and enhance patient satisfaction scores.
Currently, I am the Director of Patient Experience at the University of Maryland - Upper Chesapeake Hospital. I am leading quality initiatives that drive patient satisfaction and community partnerships. Pima Medical gave me the foundation to excel in healthcare, and I'm incredibly grateful for the education that started me on this rewarding journey.
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After graduating from high school, I attended UTEP (University of Texas at El Paso) but despite attempting a number of majors, I still didn't have a plan. The thing that brought me joy was volunteering at the shelter where I adopted my dog. I really loved working with the animals and it made me realize that's what I was meant to do.
I began researching schools with a veterinary program around El Paso and found Pima Medical Institute and enrolled in the Veterinary Assistant program. I cannot tell you how excited and joyful I was to finally start on a path to a career I knew I would love! I had a great experience during my 9-month program. My instructor was wonderful and I received lots of hands-on practice. I was placed in Boerne, near San Antonio, at the Cibolo Creek Veterinary Hospital for my externship and before I left to head back to El Paso, they offered me a position!
After almost three years as a Veterinary Assistant I decided to continue my education and enrolled in the Veterinary Technician program, this time at the Pima Medical in San Antonio. I have been learning so much and am enjoying getting exposure in different areas like exotics and livestock. I appreciate my instructors sharing their experiences and providing hands-on instruction. I plan to graduate later this year.
I love the veterinary field and I am so thankful to Pima Medical for providing a path to a great career that I love!
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I grew up in a medical environment as my dad was a Navy doctor and my mom was a nurse. I ended up getting a bachelor's degree in biology and after working for a time in construction, decided my love of animals was prompting me to pursue a career in the veterinary field. I heard about Pima Medical Institute and liked the idea that I would get experience in the field through their Veterinary Assistant program.
I still remember my first day of the VA program when my instructor looked at me and said, "You have a degree and are way overqualified for this." I explained I wanted to learn the basics of caring for animals and get hands-on experience. It's been over 25 years and that instructor and I are still in touch. She always told us, "I can teach you how to do a procedure correctly, but it's more important to teach you the WHY." I still emphasize this and repeat it often to my staff.
While working as a VA, I applied to veterinary schools, but my bachelor's degree GPA was low and I was rejected from many vet schools. Finally, I was accepted at an offshore school in the Caribbean and later transferred to Kansas State, where I earned my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. I was a Veterinarian at a couple of clinics before owning my own. Over the years, I have hired graduates from Pima Medical and have taken their externs. They still offer a very good program and teach the basics.
My time at Pima Medical was an opportunity and a doorway into the veterinary world. I am a great example that it's not always about grades. If you have passion and are willing to work hard, you can accomplish your goals. My mom always told me, "As long as you are doing something you love, you'll be happy!" Down the road, I think I might enjoy returning to Pima Medical ... this time as an instructor.
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When I got braces in high school, I was fascinated by how something so simple could transform a person's smile-and their confidence. That experience sparked my interest in the dental field, and after researching options, I found Pima Medical Institute's Dental Assistant (DA) program. I enrolled right after high school and jumped into the program.
My instructors were incredible! I never considered myself a standout student, but the hands-on learning style was perfect for me. I learned so much, and when it came time for my externship, it felt like a breeze because I was so prepared. They even offered me a job as soon as I finished, and I worked there happily until I moved out of state.
Since graduating in 2011, I've worked in every part of a dental office-from assisting to managing the front desk to being an office manager. Today, I'm a mom of two fast-growing kids, and I want more flexibility to be with them, so I'm going back to school for billing and coding. This will allow me to continue working in the dental field from home.
I love the dental field because I get to make a difference-helping patients find relief from pain or transforming their smiles - and I'm excited about the next chapter in my dental career. Pima Medical is an amazing place with caring instructors and I would choose it all over again. It's changed my life.
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My journey into healthcare wasn't planned. During my senior year of high school, I was preparing to study engineering when my dad passed away. It was a tough time, and I decided to take a break. My mom, a nurse, suggested I become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), so I completed an accelerated program and started working at Silver Hills Healthcare Center in Las Vegas. I never imagined a career in long-term care, but I excelled as a CNA and was promoted to rehab aide. One day my regional director, who saw potential in me, signed me up for an informational seminar at Pima Medical Institute for the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program. I attended, was intrigued, and decided to enroll.
Balancing school and work wasn't easy, but Pima Medical made it possible. I worked flexible hours, attended classes and studied late into the evenings. The instructors were experienced, and the small class sizes made learning enjoyable. When I took the national licensing exam, I achieved one of the highest scores my instructor had ever seen. After working in the field, I wanted to grow my career even more, so I enrolled in Pima Medical's online Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration (BSHCA) program. Today, I'm an Assistant Administrator at Alta Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, finishing my Administrator in Training program. Soon, I'll sit for the licensing exam to become a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, and my ultimate goal is to own a skilled nursing facility.
Pima Medical gave me the tools and confidence to succeed. Their programs may cost a bit more, but they are efficient and effective with no prerequisites. I received a quality education at Pima Medical and I'm proud to be a graduate!
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Nineteen years ago, I took my first step toward a life-changing career by enrolling in the Medical Assistant (MA) program at Pima Medical Institute. I knew I wanted to work in healthcare, but I didn't realize how transformative this journey would be. During my time as an MA student, I became fascinated with Respiratory Therapy (RT), so I enrolled in Pima Medical's RT program. My instructors believed in me and pushed me beyond my limits. The administrative team was equally supportive, showing me that my education mattered to them as much as it did to me.
While still an RT student, I secured my first job at North Vista Hospital. After graduating, I joined University Medical Center (UMC) in Las Vegas. Both hospitals hired me after completing my clinical rotations. I worked my way up and built my career at UMC, eventually earning a management role. While there I continued my education, completing a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT) online program from Pima Medical and later a master's degree in Business.
After retiring, I returned to Pima Medical to give back. In April 2024, I became the Clinical Director of Education for the RT program and by October 2024, I became the RT Program Director. I am forever grateful to Pima Medical Institute for believing in me. This journey wouldn't have been possible without the incredible instructors and staff who stood by me every step of the way.
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My journey into health care began with an interest in nursing, but I soon realized it didn't align with my personality. A shadowing opportunity in a Radiology department, arranged by my mother, confirmed my passion for radiography. I chose Pima Medical Institute's Radiography associate degree program and had exceptional experience as a student.
The program's blend of didactic and clinical training thoroughly prepared me for my career. I viewed each clinical rotation as a job interview, especially my fourth-semester placement. I worked hard to impress the staff by demonstrating the skills I had learned and I earned a job offer at the same hospital, where I continue to work.
Currently, I serve as the Director of Diagnostic Imaging at Canyon Vista Medical Center. Since graduating from Pima Medical's Radiography program 13 years ago, I have had the privilege of precepting students from various programs across Arizona and California. Among them, Pima Medical students consistently stand out. They arrive at their first clinical rotation with strong positioning skills and the confidence to image patients of all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics.
Pima Medical not only equipped me with essential skills but also instilled confidence and set me on a path to success.
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