Back in 2001 I enrolled in Pima Medical Institute's Medical Assistant Program. I was actually interested in nursing, but I had a young child and I just didn't have time to be on a waiting list. I enjoyed the program and ended up working as a Medical Assistant for 10 years until I felt like I had hit that glass ceiling and I couldn't grow any more.
I called PMI to see if they had a next step for me. When I learned about their online Health Care Administration associate's degree program, I got really excited! It was challenging, but I was motivated. My kids were a little older and they understood our life would change for a time while I was working and going to school, so we made it a family affair and we all studied together each night. My classes were really beneficial. They prepared me for leadership and management; skills I need for my current position. Our instructors made the classes practical. For example, we would have class discussions on how to handle patients who were upset. When I finished the program I realized I wanted to keep going, so I continued on and completed PMI's Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration. I am currently employed at Westmed Family Healthcare as their Clinical Supervisor. I would encourage other MAs to continue their education. Combining my years of experience with the online degrees from PMI has opened more doors for me in the healthcare field.
|
I have always admired health care professionals and knew from an early age that I wanted to contribute meaningfully to patient care. As a young adult preparing for college, a routine physical led to the discovery of a benign brain tumor. I spent much of that summer in and out of the hospital. The compassion, skill and reassurance shown by my nurses and doctors left a lasting impact on me during a time filled with fear and uncertainty.
I began working as a dental assistant for a family friend, which gave me a glimpse into the profession and led to a transformative mission trip to Nicaragua, where I assisted in providing dental care to underserved communities.
Soon after, I applied to the Dental Hygiene program at Pima Medical Institute's Seattle campus. The program was rigorous, but the unwavering support from instructors made all the difference. They were dedicated to our success academically, clinically and personally. When it came time to take my clinical boards and graduate, I felt fully prepared and confident.
Now, with eight years of experience as a Registered Dental Hygienist, I often hear from employers how much they value Pima Medical graduates. This reputation for excellence inspired me to continue my education and enroll in the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration program. That journey equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to start my own myofunctional therapy practice. Through my Capstone project, I developed a comprehensive business plan and learned what it takes to build and sustain a health care practice.
I am proud to now serve as a Hybrid and Clinical Dental Hygiene Instructor at the Seattle campus. It's an honor to be a Pima Medical graduate, a dental professional, a business owner, an educator and, above all, a mother to three amazing children. I feel truly blessed to support my family while thriving in a career I am passionate about.
|
I chose PMI's Respiratory Therapy program over the others I visited because it was an established program, had a great reputation, and it just felt like a fit for me. Once in the program, I was impressed by the way my instructors focused on making sure I truly understood the material. I felt better understood by my PMI instructors than I ever had at the university where I'd previously gotten my bachelors degree in dietetics.
I had a really good clinical experience at a top notch facility where I was mentored by great clinical preceptors. I discovered my passion while doing my rotation in the Pediatric ICU of Children's Hospital. I applied for a position there, and a short time later became the lead respiratory therapist in the Pediatric ICU. I recently took on a new position as a flight respiratory therapist with the newborn/child transport team. This job has been my goal since my initial interview at PMI when I heard about flight respiratory therapists. Seven years later, I have my dream job.
I think one of the biggest things PMI prepared me to do was to continue to learn. My first instructor, Amy Brown, told us the first day that you'll learn 10% of what you need here, the other 90% is out there. PMI sets you up to continue learning and teaches you to think critically. This program is second to none!
|
I was a single mom with two children working as a clinic receptionist. While I dreamed of being a nurse, I couldn't find a nursing school that would accommodate my work schedule. At the recommendation of a coworker, I attended Pima Medical Institute's evening Medical Assistant program - a challenging year of heading directly from an eight-hour work day to evening classes at Pima Medical.
Upon graduation, my receptionist position transitioned into a full-time Medical Assistant, which, for the next ten years, afforded me a much better opportunity to provide for my children, and I obtained additional income as a part-time MA Instructor for Pima Medical. As my family matured, I renewed my dream of becoming an RN, but one of my doctors challenged me to skip nursing and go directly into a Physician's Assistant Program. In 2011 I finished my Physician's Assistant degree, in 2016 I completed my Master's degree and I now am finishing my Doctorate degree with a projected graduation date in 2021. I continue to enjoy working in the specialty of Gastroenterology at Swedish Medical Center Seattle.
I am on several committees, both in Washington State and nationally, and I help with the education and training of new PAs in our fellowship program at work. I was recently awarded the Nutrition Outreach Fellowship from the National PA Foundation, which will help me to become even more involved in my profession and in the community that I love!
I am so thankful Pima Medical opened doors to the medical field and propelled me to enhance my career. I never dreamed of having such a rewarding career!
|
I was a stay at home mom for 18 years. When my oldest child headed to college I felt like I had lost my identity and purpose, but I just wasn't sure what I wanted to do. I knew I didn't want to be behind a desk and I enjoyed being on my feet and using my hands. So when I saw the commercial for the Dental Assisting Program and Pima Medical Institute, I decided it might be a fit for me.
It was somewhat intimidating going back to school when I was the oldest student in the class and it was certainly challenging having homework again while balancing family and home life. But, my instructor was helpful and cheered me on.
I felt very prepared, although extremely nervous, for my hands on externship experience. But I learned so much and it helped me understand that I really wanted to work in a specialty area of dentistry. I was initially hired at a general practice but soon found the place I really belonged; a periodontist office. I absolutely love it! I enjoy meeting and getting to know my patients. I have great coworkers and wonderful doctors who continue to teach me about their specialty. I love it all and am so happy!
Pima Medical has been so good in helping me go from "what's my purpose?" to "this is where I should be!" Finding that out and being happy where I am has been everything. It has done so much for me! Plus, my kids are really proud of me.
I love the patients!
It's different every day!
It's a lot of fun.
I love it! I'm so glad I did this!
|
I was in my early 20's, ready to complete a degree in finance when I realized I really didn't want to spend my life sitting behind a desk. I had a few family members working in the radiography field and I noticed they not only had a great career, but they could choose to work in different modalities and had lots of variety in their jobs. I began researching, found Pima Medical Institute's Radiography program and enrolled.
I had wonderful instructors! It's an intense and tough program, but the way the program is structured really makes you feel prepared for your profession. I enjoyed the shorter rotations for clinicals which exposed me to many different areas and modalities. Once I knew what I was looking for, I was able to complete multiple rotations in my area of interest which prepared me for a job at that very location. I was hired at University of New Mexico Hospital (UNMH) and after a year I was promoted to a charge technologist and almost 2 years ago I moved into the role of General Radiology Supervisor. I love the fast-paced environment at UNMH. We're the only trauma one hospital in the state and we see something new every day. I'm not the only Pima Medical graduate in my department, we currently have five employees that were my classmates and each year I hire multiple new Pima Medical new graduates.
Pima Medical provided a great education and really prepared me for the field.
|
I worked retail for almost eight years. I wasn't motivated and would wake up each day dreading going to work and seeing no future in my job. I had a friend in the same situation who left to attend Pima Medical Institute's nine-month Dental Assistant (DA) program. Watching her experiencing success in her new career, made me decide to look into the program.
My experience as a student was great. I loved it! I woke up motivated every day and was surrounded by peers with the same goals as myself, which made it easy to succeed. COVID was definitely the biggest challenge we faced throughout the program, but my instructors gave us the detailed training we needed and even allowed for one-on-one instruction. I completed my externship and was immediately hired at that practice as a DA. I quickly achieved my RDA (Registered Dental Assistant) and soon after became the lead dental assistant of that office. I know that I have so much opportunity for growth within my company and am excited for my future.
I would like to thank my Pima Medical instructors. They gave me so much knowledge during the program, but more importantly they continue to make themselves available for any questions I have. I recommend Pima Medical to prospective dental assistants all the time. They gave me the tools I needed to succeed and for that I will always be 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!
|
After graduating from high school in Rio Rico, I moved to Tucson to attend a community college, but it just wasn't the right place for me. One of my friends had gone to Pima Medical Institute, and after checking out their Medical Assistant (MA) program, I thought-this is perfect! The program was fast, flexible, and had no wasted classes. Since there were options for morning, afternoon or evening classes, I was able to continue working while attending school. At just 19 years of age, I graduated with my certificate and started working in a "grown up job" while most of my friends were still in college. I knew I had made the right choice. I landed a job at Catalina Pediatrics where I worked as an MA for 13 years, eventually becoming the back-office manager.
Wanting more, I considered nursing, but a co-worker suggested I look into Respiratory Therapy (RT). When I found out Pima Medical had an RT program, I knew it was for me. The classes were challenging, but my instructors were supportive, and my classmates and I helped each other through the program. The biggest challenge I faced was during my ICU rotation, when COVID hit and we were sent home. After graduating, I saw a job opening at Banner Main as Program Manager for their Sleep Research Lab. I applied, and got the job! It was a tough first year learning the ins and outs of research, but now I love the responsibility and even the pressure.
If I hadn't gone back to school for RT, I wouldn't be where I am today, with a job I love. My advice? Whether you're 19 or 39, go to school. Pima Medical gave me opportunities I never imagined, and it can do the same for you!
|
had just graduated from high school and was searching for a career that would allow me to help others while staying active. When I discovered Pima Medical Institute's Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program, I knew it was the perfect fit. The opportunity to complete the program in just 18 months and start my dream job immediately was exactly what I was looking for.
My experience at Pima Medical was amazing. The class schedule allowed me to balance my studies with a part-time job, which was important for supporting myself. The coursework was challenging, but my instructors were incredibly supportive and always took the time to help me understand difficult concepts. I especially appreciated how they related the material to real-world, clinical situations, making everything we learned feel more relevant and practical. The hands-on experience in our lab and during clinical rotations was invaluable. It solidified my skills and prepared me for the workforce. Right after graduation I was hired at Athletico, where I've been working ever since. I'm currently pursuing a certification in pelvic floor therapy, a field I'm very passionate about. I am looking forward to raising awareness about its importance for overall well-being.
I'm so grateful to my instructors at Pima Medical. The education I received there truly shaped me into the clinician I am today. I highly recommend Pima Medical to anyone looking to pursue a career in healthcare - it's an amazing school.
|
When I first walked through the doors of Pima Medical Institute, life was a challenge! My husband was out of work, and we, along with our six-month-old baby, were living with his mother. Plus, I had dropped out of school at 5th grade and since my mother wasn't familiar with homeschooling, I taught myself at home through high school. Today, after completing four programs, we own a beautiful home, and our now eight-year-old daughter is thriving. Our lives have completely transformed. I'm a 5th grade dropout with a master's degree - nothing is impossible if you really want it.
I began with the nine-month Medical Assistant (MA) program. Balancing full-time work and school was tough-I cried many times on my drive to class-but I never gave up. I was determined to build a better life for my family. That determination drove me to continue my education, earning my associate degree in Health Care Administration (HCA), a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration (BSHCA), and eventually a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL).
Throughout this journey, I've worked and gone to school simultaneously. Thanks to the education and skills I gained at Pima Medical, I've never struggled to find opportunities. In fact, I've had the privilege of being selective about my career path. I've grown from being an MA to a referral coordinator, and now, I'm in my first management position-a role I secured a month before earning my master's degree. Each program at Pima Medical played a crucial role in my career progression. My master's degree, in particular, has been invaluable. As a clinic manager building a new practice from scratch, I've relied on the knowledge I gained every step of the way.
Thank you, Pima Medical Institute, for changing my life and helping me achieve my dreams. If only my first instructor, Ms. Lakeeta Garfield, could see me now. So often her words - "Be thorough," have run through my mind. I have strived to be thorough in everything I do and I have been successful.
|
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.
|
