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PMI helped me obtain my career in the medical field. A friend of mine was enrolled in their Medical Assistant program and always shared how much she enjoyed going to school. I started to look into the other programs they had to offer and decided on the Pharmacy Technician program. I wasn't sure, but since it was only a nine month course I wasn't losing much time if it wasn't a fit. I ended up loving the program and couldn't wait to start working in the field. My instructor was great and some of my classmates have become my lifelong friends.
My externship site gave me the hands on experience I needed and Career Services sent me job leads and helping me find a position. My goal was to work in the hospital setting, so I was very excited when I received a job at University of Colorado Hospital (UCH). I started as a float until I learned all the different positions. Then I began working in the Operating Room (OR) pharmacy where I would make the medications and bring them to the anesthesiologists, nurses, and doctors while they were in surgery. After about a year of working in the OR, I transferred back to the central pharmacy and became a PYXIS technician, refilling the medications in the PYXIS machines on the units for the nurses. After three years, I was promoted to Pharmacy Compliance Officer. Now, I make sure UCH is compliant with the State Board of Pharmacy (SBOP) and USP 797. I am currently enrolled in school to pursue my bachelors in business and hope to continue moving up within the company at UCH.
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After years of bouncing between retail and fast food jobs, I found myself questioning the direction of my life. Dissatisfied and yearning for something more meaningful, I explored careers in the medical field but many required prerequisites. That's when I discovered the Sterile Processing Technician (SPT) program at Pima Medical Institute during a meeting with an advisor. It sounded really interesting to me and I decided just to go for it.
Being part of the very first SPT program at the Denver Campus meant small class sizes and lots of personal attention. Sterile Processing fascinated me with its intricate details, providing constant mental stimulation. When I began my clinical work in the hospital, nerves got the best of me, leading to anxious mornings. Yet, as I embraced the experience, the fear subsided and I found purpose in the crucial role Sterile Processing plays and I was hired by the hospital where I completed my clinicals. Two years later, I moved to my current employer, Valley Regional Medical Center in Arkansas Valley, where I am the SPD Supervisor. I oversee the setup, sterilization and ordering processes, including implants and replacement parts. The responsibility is immense, but the challenge fuels my passion. I've recently returned to school online to pursue Practical Nursing (LPN), aspiring to advance to a Scrub Technician role here at the hospital and perhaps become a traveler in the future.
I had such a great experience at Pima Medical Institute and if I had the chance for a redo - I would do it all over again. I finally feel like I am doing something meaningful with my life.
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I've always been interested in sports and even considered becoming an orthopedic surgeon, but having kids at a young age derailed my plan As a stay at home mom while working part-time, I decided it was time to pursue a career that I could take with me as the military moved our family. I found Pima Medical Institute and discovered they were launching a brand new Physical Therapist Assistant program. I knew immediately this was for me. I really enjoyed interacting with my classmates and they became like family. My instructors were great and so knowledgeable!
After graduation, the military moved us to Colorado Springs. I took my boards and ended up achieving a perfect score on my exam! One of my clinical rotations had been in vestibular and balance. Colorado Sport and Spine was seeking someone to work with their vestibular therapist. Since I had experience, I was hired over all the other applicants. I love my job and I have great coworkers and mentors.
The physical therapists I work under are hugely into the betterment of our profession and encouraged me to get my bachelor's degree. I enrolled in PMI's online PTA bachelor program almost immediately. I was motivated to tackle it while I was still in student mode, plus I didn't want to wait 10 years until it might become mandatory. The online program was very good and I appreciated that my classmates and I were able to tailor our online experience to fit our day to day job. I had a wonderful experience at PMI and have nothing but good things to say about both programs.
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My dad owned a dental lab so I grew up in the dental field. I wanted to become a dentist but thought that might be too ambitious for a first step, so I decided to become a dental hygienist. Pima Medical Institute accepted me into their program on my first application and it changed my life!
My instructors were amazing! Their doors were always open and they were incredibly supportive. I enjoyed every minute of the program and before I even graduated, I had a number of job offers. I worked at my first office for about a year and got some great experience. I then transitioned to working for one of the top cosmetic dentists in the Pacific Northwest.
While working as a hygienist, I continued my education at PMI by enrolling in their online Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration Program. I took the methodology my dentist was using, which was very different from general practices, and made that my capstone project for my bachelor's degree. When I graduated, my dentist promoted me to office manager and practice administrator. Since that time, I was promoted again, this time as head treatment coordinator. I have an amazing job that I love!
Unlike most traditional university programs, PMI allows a student to complete their program of study and begin working in their field while they complete their bachelor degree online. Because of this, I was able to pay off all my student loans by the time I completed my bachelor's, and I graduated debt free! PMI was the best investment I have ever made.
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As a small child I was obsessed with watching medical shows. I told my dad I wanted to be a nurse and I never changed my mind! I knew Pima Medical Institute had a great reputation so I enrolled in the Associate's degree in Nursing (ADN) at their Mesa Campus. I had a great experience and loved my instructors and, even though it's very uncommon to admit, I actually miss nursing school! It was a challenging time for me as I logged over 45 flights back and forth to San Diego during my program to help care for my husband's grandfather who was on hospice. But, my instructors were great and helped me succeed.
I've always loved children, so I combined my two passions and landed a job working in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Shortly after landing my dream job and enrolling in Pima Medical's Bachelor of Science in Nursing's (BSN) online program, we received the wonderful news that we were expecting a baby boy. I found myself writing discussion boards while in labor in my hospital bed. Although it was challenging working full-time, raising a newborn and going to school, the online classes maintained enough organization and a steady pace to encourage me to keep going and graduate on time.
I get questions daily from people interested in a nursing program. I've always told them the truth - if you want a solid education that prepares you for the world of nursing, Pima Medical is the best option. The clinical sites are unmatched, the staff will do anything to help you succeed and there is nothing that isn't covered in the 20 month program that you will need to start your nursing career.
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After graduating from high school, I was afraid of going to the university and ending up $60,000 in debt, so I got a job instead. It didn't take long for me to realize my job held no future for me and that's when I decided to look into the medical field where I could have a stable career and growth opportunities. I've always been good at math, so I was looking into pharmacy when I heard a commercial for Pima Medical Institute and decided to enroll in the Pharmacy Technician program. My instructors were accomplished in their field and everyone there wanted me to succeed. I didn't own a car at the time so each day I would ride the bus for two hours, attend four hours of class, and then ride the bus two hours home. Yep - it was an eight-hour day for me, but I loved it!
Over the years, I've held a variety of positions but currently, I am working as a pharmacy liaison at University of Colorado's health transplant clinic. Because I want to grow in the medical field, I recently obtained my bachelor's degree in Health Care Administration from Colorado State University and I plan next to get my MBA. My eventual dream is to be the director of a clinic, urgent care or even hospital.
To help broaden my experience in the health care field, I took a position as an evening Career Prep instructor at Pima Medical's Aurora Campus. I am able to encourage and motivate my students as well as be understanding. For example, evening classes are a struggle for many of my students who work all day and I can totally relate since I also have a day job. I have found that I love teaching! I am grateful for Pima Medical Institute. Their education is top notch!
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At a young age I had the opportunity to shadow a veterinarian, Dr. Katherine Parks, and my passion was ignited! Each spring break I continued to visit her clinic and during that time I made the decision to become a Veterinary Technician (VT). I had no interest in attending a four-year college as I was career driven and was anxious to get out and work in the field.
I loved the VT program at Pima Medical Institute! It was encouraging and exciting to be surrounded by fellow students who all shared my passion. I appreciated the atmosphere created by our instructors and the hands-on experience. Unfortunately, I was in a rollover accident, was bedridden and had to miss a whole sequence of classes. It was difficult being away from Pima Medical and all my classmates, but my instructors were so supportive when I was able to return. However soon after, COVID hit and we were forced to go remote. I was so discouraged, but I was able to begin shadowing at my future externship site while taking online classes and upon graduation they offered me a position.
I passed my VTNE exam in October of 2020 to become a certified VT. I am currently the second lead tech and am in charge of employee training and inventory; having assisted in establishing new protocols and the purchase of updated equipment. I attend every continuing education event I can get my hands on and I love learning. Veterinary medicine can take me anywhere and I am up for the challenge. Down the road I can even see myself as an instructor in a VT program.
I am grateful for Pima Medical and my instructors who provided me with an education that has led to my continued success and allowed my dreams to become reality.
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I have found a career that I love as a Medical Lab Technician!
I'd attempted to find my place in the medical field once before, attending a Dental Assistant program, but it just wasn't for me. I just didn't enjoy interacting with patients. After being a stay-at-home mom for about 10 years, I returned to Pima Medical Institute, learned they had started a Medical Lab Technician (MLT) program and knew this was the program and the career for me.
I chose Pima Medical because I knew how hands-on they were. Unfortunately, shortly after starting the program, the pandemic hit resulting in us having to go to online learning. But, our instructors worked really hard to get us into the lab in small groups to practice during COVID. During my program I found out I had a brain tumor requiring surgery. The instructors were very helpful and supportive during my treatment and I was able to continue my program.
I am a veteran so I did my clinicals at the VA Hospital in Cheyenne, WY. It was challenging staying in Cheyenne during the week and driving back for week-ends, but I did it! I landed an MLT job at Centura Health's Penrose Hospital shortly after graduation and I love it! There is no typical day; every day is different and I learn something new almost every day. I plan to do this job until I can't do it anymore. I am preparing to start my bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science. This will set me up to get my MLS certification, providing a pay increase and an opportunity for a lead position. I would definitely recommend Pima Medical's MLT program. If you like solving puzzles, this is a great career for you!
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I had an awesome pediatric dentist growing up. When I expressed my interest in the dental field, he encouraged me to go to school and said that I would have a guaranteed job once I finished. My mom had attended Pima Medical Institute's Medical Assistant program, so she encouraged me to enroll in their Dental Assistant (DA) program.
Unfortunately, my experience in the program was a bit of a roller coaster. I was hanging out with the wrong crowd, resulting in my failing some classes. But, the staff was very supportive and helped me get back on track. I loved the hands-on education and felt very prepared for my externship experience working on real patients.
The career services department helped me find my first job with an oral surgeon, Dr. Katherine Keeley. I received amazing training from her during my three years there and I am truly grateful for the opportunity she gave me. In 2015, I accepted a position with Gibson and Leavitt as an Oral Surgery Assistant. Every day I see something new; from crazy impactions to jaw fractures. I do digital scans, take impressions and assist with all types of surgeries including wisdom teeth extractions, implants, bone grafts and sinus lifts.
I am thankful for the staff at Pima Medical who helped me get back on the right track. I would tell students who are struggling not to give up. There's always someone out there willing to talk to you and help you. You just have to let them know you need that extra help.
I love my career and am currently taking classes with a new goal to become an obstetrician.
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Back in 2016, I was doing odd jobs and struggling to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. Motivated by the advice of family members who had careers in the healthcare field, I chose to pursue a Nursing Assistant (NA) program. However, relocating from New York to Arizona necessitated repeating the program to obtain the necessary certification. It was during this time that I discovered Pima Medical Institute's NA program, which proved to be an ideal fit due to their accommodating evening classes.
I had a really great experience at Pima Medical. I went in with an open mind, knowing the nursing field changes daily and there is always more to learn. Upon completion, I was offered a position as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CAN) at Springdale Village Health Care Mesa and after only 6 months, I moved up to Director of Case Management. In this capacity, I serve as a crucial liaison between the facility, the insurance company and the patients, ensuring that proper payments align with the required level of care. Additionally, I lead our educational program. Within a very short time after becoming the Director of Case Management, I reached out to Pima Medical and established a contract for their students and currently we have 8 of their externship students learning at our facility.
Pima Medical provided me a solid foundation in the healthcare field, steering me towards a fulfilling career rather than just a job. I am paid well, have everything I need and I love my job! I enjoy making sure patients are taken care of, especially those without family. I advocate and always tell them, "I get paid to stress, you get paid to heal."
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I was working as a Medical Assistant (MA) at my clinic when I learned my supervisor was retiring in a year. I really wanted her position so I began researching similar positions and realized that a degree was my best bet for being hired for the job. I found Pima Medical Institute through an online search and was impressed with the flexibility of the program. Being a mom of three and working full time, I needed that flexibility.
I enrolled in the online Health Care Administration associate degree program and had a wonderful experience. It was a challenge adapting to virtual learning, as I had no previous experience, but my instructors were amazing and extremely helpful. I appreciated how thorough the courses were. Learning the differences in insurance, payers, abbreviations and legal terms totally prepared me for the supervisory position I was pursuing. I'm happy to say that I was hired as a supervisor and started my new position less than a month after graduating and, because of my education, I was able to walk in with a clear understanding of the job.
My education was top notch! I recently hired an MA graduate from Pima Medical and was excited to utilize someone who had a great education just like I had. I am so glad I chose Pima Medical and I've recommended them to my coworkers who are looking to advance in their career.
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My journey with Pima Medical Institute began at the Las Vegas campus, pursuing an associate degree to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA). Balancing part-time work as an administrative assistant with classes, I discovered a passion for the operational side of business. As I neared the completion of my associate degree program I was introduced to the bachelor's program in Health Care Administration, aligning seamlessly with my interests.
The transition to the online program was manageable, the content relevant and I enjoyed my experience. My instructors were helpful, offering necessary check-ins for support and guiding me to resources. Toward the end of the program, I faced a medical complication requiring surgery. I communicated with my instructor before and they arranged an appropriate extension so I didn't fall behind and even called to check in on my recovery. I learned the importance of communication and it helped prepare me to be a compassionate administrator in the future.
Since graduating I have embraced my role as a COTA at a level 2 trauma hospital in Vancouver, WA. I am continuing to develop as a clinician and am currently a chair member of the shared governance acute care team to be a voice, make changes for best practices and promote team culture within the hospital. My future goal includes using my degree to research and, hopefully, open my own transitional housing program for unhoused individuals who have experienced amputations or are at risk.
I absolutely recommend Pima Medical to others, particularly to those who may have responsibilities like a family or work they have to maintain during schooling. My instructors went above and beyond to help me be successful and they have truly impacted my life.
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