Shortly after graduating from high school I found myself attending a community college with the intent of majoring in psychology. One day my psychology teacher shared a list of "1000 Jobs Built to Last" and RAD Tech caught my attention, as I'd always had an interest in the medical field. When I mentioned this to my teacher, he told me about Pima Medical Institute's Radiography (RAD) program, gave me a brochure and I ended up enrolling. I was one of the youngest students in the program, but the diversity of age groups was really helpful for me. The program is very intense and fast paced so I took advantage of every tutoring opportunity. I had three amazing instructors who prepared me, allowing me to score a 98 on my boards, and taught me invaluable life skills.
I got some great experience at my first job at a radiology clinic, but I really missed the hospital setting so after a few years I obtained a position at Banner/Good Samaritan. Within the first year I was able to work into leadership and I have benefitted from Banner's leadership development programs over the last 21 years. I also obtained both my bachelor's and master's degree in business management. I've held roles of supervisor, senior manager, director, associate administrator. Currently, I am the Chief Operating Officer at both Banner University Medical Center Tucson and South Campuses. Having been a clinician has been really helpful for me in understanding the needs of both our patients and employees.
I recommend becoming a Rad Tech. You make good money and I have found it to be stable, even in uncertain economies. Plus, the sky is the limit! Not only do you have many specialty options (CT, Mammography, Ultrasound, MRI, Interventional Radiology), you get to integrate with the whole hospital and become a core part of what makes a hospital run. This allows for an easy step into leadership. I never entered this career saying I wanted to be the COO, I just wanted to make the world a better place for people.
Choosing to attend the RAD program at Pima Medical Institute was one of the best decisions I've made.
|
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.
|
I had just had my last cancer surgery and was sitting on my couch at home when I heard the commercial. I got up and began researching medical assistant and Pima Medical Institute and made my decision. It was difficult going back to school and being the oldest student in the class. But the teachers cared and helped me every step of the way. Even after I graduated and began my career, I'd often call my instructor, Mrs. Cooks, with an insurance or billing question.
My first job was at a sleep clinic where I'd completed my externship. After only a month I was promoted to the office manager. About a year ago I received a phone call from someone at PMI asking me to come and teach for them. I was both shocked and touched. I am currently the lead Medical Assistant instructor and I have continued my education completing my associate's degree in Health Care Administration through PMI's Online Campus.
I have seen that PMI keeps their promise to help their graduates forever. I have a student who has been out of school for five years and is back for a refresher course, at no additional cost. Many of our instructors are alumni or are enrolled in our online programs. PMI is a great place to work. I can't ever remember working in such a pleasant environment.
|
Before and during my program at Pima Medical Institute my life was blessed with many changes and challenges. In the summer of 2010, life was particularly stressful for me. I found myself a single mother with no job, homeless, and struggling to keep the little state assistance that I did receive. I filed for bankruptcy, I lost my newly purchased home, and I was struggling to find the right path. I knew I had to find something soon so I could provide for my son.
I started researching what jobs were still hiring in the medical profession. I met with an admissions counselor, Adam, at Pima Medical to choose my program and, after much discussion, he suggested I observe an Occupational Therapy Assistant in action. The more I learned about OT, the more it just seemed to fit my dreams, my personality, and my needs for a career. As I observed the gentleman I was shadowing, I realized I could do this the rest of my life.
Two years later, I am now a graduate from PMI's OTA program. I graduated at the top of my class with a 3.65 GPA. I want to thank all the wonderful people at Pima Medical for their guidance, support, and dedication to the program and for helping me succeed in life. Finishing my program was an achievement worth the rough road. Now I find myself expecting my second child and looking forward to a promising new career as a COTA. Thank you PMI - I couldn't have done it without you!
|
Bryan - I was unsure of what I was looking for in a career. I became a pharmacy technician first, but it just wasn't for me and I hated it. My dad encouraged me to check out the x-ray field. Pima Medical Institute was the first program to pop up and I enrolled. It was a little intimidating at first but I worked hard, my instructors were happy to answer all my questions and it was an amazing experience. I loved my classmates; they are great people. I am currently working as a radiographic cardio-cath lab technologist at CHI St. Luke's Hospital. It's different every day and I love it! After gaining more experience down the road, my goal is to transition into MRI.
Alvin - I was supposed to start Pima Medical Institute with my brother Bryan, but I was going through a rough patch in my life and had to put it on hold. I am currently enjoying the program and excited to almost be finished. I have gotten to know so many people and made lots of friends, which makes me really happy. The cath lab was my favorite clinical experience so I am hoping to get a job in that area after graduation.
We are both so glad we chose Pima Medical. We love the instructors and agree there's no better program out there. Someone might find a little better priced program, but the quality of education and the instructors at Pima Medical just can't be beat! Our parents are really happy we both found Pima Medical.
|
I was a contractor in my 50's with my own construction company in Las Vegas who would come home from work tired, sunburnt and with bleeding knuckles. I knew I needed a new career. So, I met with an advisor at Pima Medical Institute on a Friday and signed up for their Medical Assistant program starting the following Monday. It was a good thing I didn't have more time to think about it or I may have backed out.
Many of my classmates were younger than I was and I wondered who would hire this old man. But when I talked with my instructors about it, they reminded me I was bringing maturity and life experiences to my new career. I had a 4.0 GPA, but I could not pass the typing test with my two-finger typing and was ready to quit. One of the instructors met me on a Saturday and told me we weren't leaving until I passed the typing test. She wouldn't let me quit and I did it!
Shortly after graduating and passing my licensing test, my fiancé started a master's program on the East coast and we moved to Pennsylvania. I was concerned about finding a job, but I completed 15 applications and was offered 12 positions! I chose Doylestown Health, a primary care with a small ER, just outside of Philadelphia where I knew I would learn and be challenged.
I am 56 years old with a new career in the medical field and I know I can go anywhere in the country and get a job. The instructors are caring, passionate and so good at what they do. My boss recently asked me if Pima Medical could send them some more of their graduates!
|
I had been working at an assisted living facility for a number of years as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and a QMAP (Qualified Medication Administration Personnel). I had worked my way up to management, but was feeling burnt out. I had a few friends who had attended Pima Medical Institute and spoke very highly of it. I began researching the programs and Surgical Technologist captured my interest, so I enrolled.
Most of my classes were online, because of COVID, but I found my instructors to be knowledgeable and encouraging, even from a distance. For clinicals, I was placed at Denver Health. I was terrified, but both my clinical director and OR educator were always available for questions and upon completion, they offered me a job.
I absolutely love going to work and am fascinated by every part of my job! Plus, I get to work with lots of other Pima Medical graduates. Here's what my typical day might look like: I check the board for my first assignment, do my first surgical scrub, begin preparing the OR. I gown and glove then prepare the back table and appropriate instruments for that surgery. After the patient and surgeon come in, I help gown and glove the surgeon, drape the patient, and set up suction, cautery, and instrumentation, keeping everything sterile. During surgery I anticipate the needs of the surgeon, often helping with retraction or bleeding. After, I help clean up the OR and begin preparing for my next surgery.
I cannot tell you how much I love being a Surgical Technologist. My husband sees how happy I am and he is considering attending the same program. I'm thankful for Pima Medical and the education and support I received from my instructors. I recommend it all the time.
|
My daughter is a neonatal nurse and an associate director at Banner Hospital. I've always said I wanted to be just like her when I grew up!
I was just 16 years old when I had my daughter and spent the next 32 years working in the grocery industry while raising my kids. It wasn't until last year when my sister passed away that I experienced firsthand just how short life can be. I decided to take that tragedy and do something positive with it. My sister had always told me I could do anything and was smarter than I thought, so I decided to be like my daughter and obtain a career in the medical field.
My daughter had originally attended Pima Medical Institute for her CNA, so I boldly made the call and set up an appointment. Coming in as a 56-year-old mother who hadn't had any education since getting my GED in 1989, was intimidating. But from the person who welcomed me in the lobby, to the admissions advisor and then my instructors - everyone was kind and encouraging. I loved my instructors and I learned so much from them. It was a wonderful experience and it empowered me. I feel like I can do anything!
I thought it would be fun to work with babies and young parents, so I pursued and obtained a position working in the neonatal intensive care unit at Banner Health. My plan is to absorb as much information as I can and then continue my education. This is such an open field with so many opportunities.
I'm so thankful for my new career and everyone at Pima Medical. You can do anything you set your mind to and you're never too old to take the risk to start over!
|
After being a truck driver and construction worker for 20 plus years, I made a promise to my mother before she died that I would go back to school. For nearly five years I passed Pima Medical Institute on my daily drive, and finally found the courage to pull in and take the pretest for the Nursing program. Going back to school at age 50 was scary, but I loved the atmosphere, the instructors and my classmates at Pima Medical. The instructors did an exceptional and extraordinary job preparing us for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
I applied at Banner Desert in Mesa where I had completed my clinicals and I was hired. It was 2019, and I was immediately thrown into the COVID Pandemic. A year later I decided to become a traveling nurse. Initially, I worried I might not be qualified enough or have enough experience, but I quickly got over that. Every place is different, but most of the core staff really appreciates the relief that travelers provide. I have been to 10 different places in four years. I'm considered a Banner Staffing Traveler within the Banner facilities nationwide and I call Banner Tucson my home, as it is where I spend the most time. Some of the challenges of being a traveler are finding a place to live and being away from family and friends. But, I am getting experience and confidence in different facilities and becoming more adaptable and flexible in my career. Plus, I am making a great salary.
Pima Medical Institute changed my life forever. I made some lifelong friends during my experience, I had some incredible, humble, giving and caring instructors and I am truly grateful!
|
After twelve-plus years as a personal trainer, I found myself needing a job with benefits like a 401K and insurance, so I transitioned to a desk job. However, I was miserable and knew I needed a career that left me feeling fulfilled. I reevaluated my passions and realized I still loved working with bodies and physical health. A co-worker who had attended Pima Medical Institute for the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program encouraged me to consider it. After researching and learning about the program, I decided to go back to school. Despite my experience, I wasn't initially accepted into the PTA program. Crushed but determined, I quit my desk job and worked as a rehab tech at an assisted living facility for a year. When I reapplied, I was accepted and I set a goal to graduate with honors.
At 39, I was older than most of my classmates, but I felt more prepared for the professional aspects. My instructors were great clinicians and I was able to learn and draw on their experiences. My clinicals were challenging, especially when COVID hit, causing disruptions. Despite the added stress, our instructors ensured we gained the necessary practical experience. After graduation, I worked at a skilled nursing facility, which I enjoyed, but quickly experienced burnout. I accepted a Physical Therapist Assistant position at Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy, where I have been thriving. In fact, a year ago I was promoted to Clinic Director. I love my job, my patients and the challenges of managing the clinic.
As a clinical instructor, I work with Pima Medical students, drawing on my experiences to engage them in hands-on learning. I'm proud to have graduated with honors and have even inspired a former client of mine to enroll in Pima Medical's Respiratory Therapy program. Now, both of us are medical professionals making a difference in people's lives. It's incredibly fulfilling!
|
I had an amazing experience in the Medical Assistant (MA) program at Pima Medical Institute. I had the best instructors and, as we spent time studying together, my classmates became amazing friends. I had always known I wanted to be in a profession where I could help people and I wanted to work with children. My older sister had completed the Veterinary Technician (VT) program at Pima Medical, so I knew it was a school I could trust and enrolled in the MA program.
I appreciated all the knowledge and information they gave us about working in the real world. The hands-on experience helped us feel prepared for our new career. Since graduating in 2018 I have worked for three clinics or organizations as an MA and have gained experience in family practice, OB/GYN and specialty clinics and have learned so much!
I love my job! Every day is different and I am constantly learning new things. I am so very grateful for my instructors at Pima Medical for helping me to be able to achieve my dream job. I love what I do and I am so grateful I took the leap to enroll in the Medical Assistant (MA) program.
|
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.
|
