My parents really valued education and wanted all 7 of us all to go to college, but they were unable to help us financially. I spent years working full time and taking classes part time, but it was such a slow process. Eventually, I became interested in pharmacy, spent 8 years working in the pharmaceutical industry while going to school and just missed getting accepted to pharmacy school. While I waited for the next opportunity, I came across Pima Medial Institute's Radiography program and it interested me. A few months into the program I realized this is what I really wanted to do. There are unlimited growth opportunities in this field.
When I came to PMI my classes felt like family. I quickly realized the PMI instructors believed in their students and wanted the best for us. Before I'd even graduated, I had a job offer at a level one trauma center. I worked there for 3 years gaining experience and growing both as a professional and as an individual. I knew I wanted to continue my education, so I enrolled in PMI's online bachelor degree program. PMI's online classes are not only very flexible; they are designed to help you be a better professional in your field. I recently came back to PMI as an instructor. I think having been a student here and recently working in the field, I'm able to understand my student's struggles and help them learn what's really important. There is a sense of true value working at PMI. It's more than a philosophy or mission statement, they really care about their employees and their students. I'm happy to be back.
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I wanted to be a Radiologic Technologist and Pima Medical Institute offered a fantastic radiography program with great reviews. My friend who mentored x-ray students at the hospital she worked at offered me the best advice: "choose Pima Medical Institute!"
I had a smooth learning experience as all the teachers wanted the students to succeed and to excel in the medical field. I took advantage of Arizona grants to help me pay for schooling and the financial officer guided me through that with ease. At Pima Medical Institute, I was taught to put myself out there, whether it's stepping into a learning opportunity or jumping in to help a teammate. Seven years later, that lesson has stayed with me, and it's something my coworkers continue to notice.
Pima Medical Institute offered a job fair where I met multiple companies interested in new grads, so I started at SimonMed. I worked for an orthopedic doctor for six years in x-ray, then I furthered my learning through an online program to train in MRI, which is what I'm doing now at a children's hospital.
I would recommend the school 100%! I have told people over the years not to put themselves on a waitlist for other schools and instead go to Pima Medical Institute! I had the best experience there and I felt like the teachers really cared for their students.
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I recommend PMI to anyone who is interested in going back to school and walking out with a career.
I chose their Medical Administrative Assistant program because I didn't really want to physically touch people but I wanted to touch them and help them in other ways. It was a challenging accelerated program but the instructors were very helpful. I wasn't used to being in school and juggling my son and my job, but I learned quickly that I couldn't afford to miss class. I appreciated the hands on work in each course and learned so much during my externship at a busy family clinic with multiple providers.
Currently, I am the front office administrator at a mental health facility. We are in the process of expanding, so I've been able to put my skills to use getting new contracts and training our new clinicians. I know the skills and knowledge I obtained while at PMI really prepared me for this position. Down the road I'd like to continue my education with PMI's online program to get my degree in Health Care Administration.
I really have nothing but good things to say about PMI. From the front desk people, to admissions/financial aid, my instructors, and, finally, the career services advisors who helped me put my resume together, it was such a great experience.
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I graduated from ASU with a degree in nutrition and applied to physical therapy school too late and didn't get in. My husband and I sat down and researched the physical therapy field and decided PMI's PTA program might be the best fit for me. When I called, the lady on the phone said, "We're going to make all your dreams come true!" and I looked at the phone and thought - she's crazy! But, I met with an advisor and started 2 weeks later. They tell you it is an accelerated program and it certainly is. The instructors were amazing and they inspired me to do more. I became very involved with my profession; PTA Co-Chair for the PTA Special Interest Group within our Arizona Chapter and helping start what is now our annual "TRYke It" event for adults with disabilities.
I remember being nervous walking into my first clinical. But, in this neurology setting I was able to witness a stroke patient or a traumatic brain injury patient make progress on things that we often take for granted and that was just simply MAGICAL! My passion for neurology PT grew from just two weeks in that setting and I accepted a position there after graduation. I also gained valuable experience working in pediatric aquatic therapy and hippo therapy with adults and children with disabilities. After some years in the field, I was offered an opportunity to come back to PMI as an instructor. I believe it gives me an advantage having recently sat in those same student chairs and my ability to relate to my students on that same level. I am happy to have come full-circle at PMI and my dreams far exceeded my expectations and continue to come true! My instructors did an incredible job preparing me for my profession and I hope to have the same influence on my students!
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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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When COVID hit, I had to close my in-person business and was struggling and searching for a career that would always be in demand. As a single mother of two, I needed to know that the work I was doing would not be in jeopardy. Having been raised in a family with healthcare backgrounds, I chose to enroll in the Medical Assistant (MA) program at Pima Medical Institute.
In less than a year I graduated with all the skills I needed to enter the world of healthcare. My instructors were very thorough and amazing, especially Mr. Wilson. He not only shared his clinical expertise, but gave me invaluable real-world knowledge and insight into the field. I currently work fulltime in clinical research developing pharmaceutical drugs and therapies at the cutting edge of medicine. I'm working with Pfizer, Moderna, Eli Lilly, Braintree and other sponsors to help develop treatments for illnesses and indications from vaccines like the MRNA-Covid 19 Booster Vaccine to rare diseases such as Amyloidosis and Alzheimer's. I couldn't have done it without taking that first step of enrolling in the MA program. I'm currently continuing my education with Pima Medical's online Health Care Administration associate and bachelor's degree programs.
Starting my career with Pima Medical was easily the best decision I have ever made and it has opened doors to even broader horizons. If you are on the fence about making an investment in yourself, I encourage you to enroll and pursue a career in healthcare.
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As a proud Pima Medical Institute BSRT graduate, my journey from an associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy (RT), to a bachelor's degree, to achieving my dream job as a Critical Care Transport Respiratory Therapist at Children's Mercy has been nothing short of remarkable. While in school for my associate's at Concorde College, they highly encouraged us to continue our education and recommended Pima Medical's online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT). I knew a bachelor's would increase my salary and would also be helpful for future supervisory or management positions. The flexibility of online classes made it manageable for me to work full-time at Salem Health, a level II trauma center with a level III NICU, while pursuing my degree.
My dream of working in medical transport began at age 17, when I was a volunteer patient for the local fire department and experienced being flighted out of our neighborhood. After years of experience as an RT, I landed my dream job. As a Critical Care Transport RT, I participate in various types of transports, from helicopters and fixed wing, to jets and ground transportation, proving support to hospitals nationwide. Children's Mercy in Kansas City is one of the busiest transport teams, covering a wide range of patients including neonates, pediatrics, maternal and fetal cases. Working with limited resources challenges me to think on my feet and be creative with patient care. The transport team, comprised of brilliant minds, requires continuous education, certifications, and simulations to improve patient care. During my downtime, I enjoy visiting former patients and their families and witnessing their progress.
I love to do PR at community events where I hope to inspire young girls to pursue a fulfilling career in healthcare. I'm appreciative for the role Pima Medical played in shaping my success and making my dream job a reality.
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At age 18 I got a job as a receptionist at a veterinary clinic. After gaining more experience at several hospitals as both a receptionist and an assistant, I knew I wanted to become a Veterinary Technician (VT). It seemed everyone I had worked with in the Seattle area had attended Pima Medical Institute, so that made their VT program an easy choice. I had struggled in classes at a traditional college, but loved my classes at Pima Medical. The instructors were excellent and very understanding. Everything I was learning seemed to apply to my experience at my job, giving me a conceptual understanding of the material. I felt very prepared for my clinicals and was offered a position at one of my sites. I worked at a number of clinics and an ER in the Seattle area, volunteered at a wildlife hospital and worked at a high- volume spay neuter clinic.
When we moved to rural Alaska, I spent a short time at a bear sanctuary before landing at Sitka Animal Hospital. I am the hospital supervisor and lead LVT and we see everything at the facility. Last week we cared for a ferret, a gecko, dogs, cats, bunnies, rodents, as well as performing surgery on a duck that had been attacked by a bald eagle. I am also on the board of a nonprofit animal shelter and a municipal animal hearing board where we hear appeals for animal control.
I am currently in pursuit of a master's degree. I hope to be part of the first group of technicians emerging into a mid-level practitioner position, much like a veterinary nurse practitioner or physician's assistant. Almost every day I think about my Pima Medical instructors and how grateful I am to have learned from them. I am proud of my successful career and I know I have them to thank.
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I was looking for a change from my previous jobs in food service and explored various community colleges in Seattle. After considering culinary arts, I decided to pursue a healthcare career where I knew jobs were more in demand. I chose Pima Medical Institute because the stories from previous graduates resonated with me. They were just like me, seeking change and career advancement. Despite having no prior knowledge or experience in pharmacy, I chose the Pharmacy Technician program to challenge myself.
My experience at Pima Medical was fun and engaging. The courses, from Career Prep to the Pharmacy Technician classes, were well planned. I learned everything I needed to succeed. The biggest challenge was balancing homework and projects with a full-time job, but it was worth it. The support from the staff at Pima's Renton campus was invaluable. The admissions and financial aid advisors helped me with my FAFSA, easing my financial worries. My Career Prep instructor made learning exciting and engaging. The staff provided support and organized stress-relieving activities like the Halloween costume contest. My instructor imparted all the pharmacy knowledge I needed and now apply daily in my work.
Since graduating from Pima Medical in 2018, I worked at ReadyMeds for nearly four years and I've spent the last several years working as a Specialty Pharmacy Technician at Kaiser Permanente of Washington. I highly recommend Pima Medical Institute for the support and programs they offer to help you achieve your goals and succeed in your career. Now I'm one of those graduates sharing my story to inspire others!
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When I decided to become a radiologic technologist, Pima Medical Institute's Radiography (RAD) program stood out to me. Unlike community college, I could start right away, and that was a big draw. The program was challenging, but the friendships I formed with my classmates kept me motivated and accountable. I really enjoyed my instructors, who provided both emotional and professional support.
The diversity of my clinical rotations was something I truly appreciated. I had the chance to practice my skills in a variety of settings, from a rural hospital to an orthopedic clinic, a large hospital, and even special procedure rotations. These experiences not only helped me decide which areas of radiography I enjoyed most but also pushed me out of my comfort zone, honing my skill set.
My first job was in urgent care, where I was the only tech on site. This role was invaluable for my growth. I had to rely on my education and critical thinking skills to obtain the best images possible. After years of working in different disciplines, I discovered my passion in Interventional Radiology and the Cath Lab. I became the lead tech in a Neuro Endovascular Lab, a role that eventually led me to join Rapid Medical Inc. as a Clinical Specialist. This position has been one of the best things to happen in my career, allowing me to travel, expand my knowledge, and contribute to patient care in a new way.
I'm incredibly grateful to Pima Medical Institute for their RAD program and the online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS) program. Both provided a strong foundation that has allowed my career to flourish.
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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.
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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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