I had been a stay at home mom for almost 10 years and had 3 beautiful children when I went through a divorce. I didn't have a career and the jobs I found just didn't pay our bills. I was so discouraged! My sister kept telling me to go back to school but I just didn't see how I could go to school, work, and care for my children.
One day I heard an advertisement on the radio for Pima Medical Institute and I thought ... maybe I can do it. I found the people at PMI to be so helpful and understanding. I knew it would be a difficult 9 months and I'd be putting in 20 hour days 3-4 times a week, but I also knew if I sacrificed now, it would mean a better future for my kids. So, I started the Medical Assistant program. It was tough and I was often exhausted. But I kept reminding myself and my kids why we were doing this. One day in the car my son held up my stethoscope and said, "Mom, you did this for us!" It was one of the best moments!
I'm so grateful for all the people at PMI - they were like family to me. Now I have a career in the medical field and a fantastic job with so much potential. Most of all I can provide for my children and they are SO proud of me! THANK YOU PMI!
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My wife, a nurse for 12 years, always encouraged me to join the medical field, but I kept putting it off. I worked as an insurance adjuster, traveling to areas hit by natural disasters, often being gone for 21 days at a time. With young children and older kids involved in activities, I was missing too much. One day, I told my wife I was ready to resign and pursue a medical career at the end of the year. Just a week later, I was let go from my job. We actually laughed at the timing. At the same time, my grandmother began having health problems. Caring for her made me realize the urgency of getting into the medical field-not just for my career, but to better understand her needs. My best friend had gone through Pima Medical's Practical Nursing (PN) program and had encouraged me to join him, but I wasn't ready then. Now, I knew it was the right choice and the right timing.
The PN program was very challenging for me, but I developed a strong small group of classmates who supported me and I had caring instructors who offered extra help. However, when my dear grandmother passed away on Christmas Eve, I was crushed. She had raised me and was my biggest cheerleader and I just wanted to quit. I arranged to meet with my director to withdraw from the program, but she encouraged me to stay. My wife reminded me why I had started the program, and decided to continue. I completed the PN program but still struggling with the loss, I failed my NCLEX exam twice. I felt so defeated, but I knew I couldn't give up. After passing on my third attempt, I drove to Pima Medical to hug my program director and we shared an emotional moment.
I am excited for my new career at the Center at Lowry, a rehabilitation facility where I did clinicals. I can't thank Pima Medical Institute enough; the instructors, especially Director Risner, were amazing and I wouldn't be where I am without them!
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We became parents at a very young age and life was very difficult for us, especially financially. My husband's job had a very demanding schedule. I had trouble finding a job that paid me enough to cover the cost of childcare. I knew I needed an education, but I didn't know how to make it work.
That is when I made the decision to look into Pima Medical Institute. I walked in one day with my baby in tow. Everyone was friendly and helpful. I was surprised to find out I could sign up for an evening Dental Assistant program that would provide me a career. I loved my classes and the hands on training and enjoyed interacting with my classmates. But, I hit a road block when I found out I was pregnant with my second child. I had complications and had to quit my classes.
With two children under the age of 2, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to complete my program. But, after taking a little time off, I walked back in those doors. I had the best support system I could have ever imagined. The people at PMI helped me reset my goals and get to the finish line. There were plenty of bumps in the road, but I was able to finish with high grades and confidence. I am currently working at a dental office that I love, with amazing people. We are 23 years old and we're buying a house and providing for our children. I am so grateful to PMI for all the support they have given me. They gave me a career and an opportunity to succeed.
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My experience at PMI came during my transition from being a diesel mechanic to becoming a physician assistant. After graduating from the University of Texas with a bachelors degree in biology, I applied for PA school and was told I needed patient care experience. So, I found PMI and signed up for their Phlebotomy program. I chose phlebotomy over CNA because I enjoy technical skills and wanted to learn the skill of drawing blood.
My classes at PMI definitely prepared me for my profession as a phlebotomist. My instructor, Ms Lei Sean, made class fun and easy to understand. My externship at the VA clinic gave me so much experience, I was able to perform almost a thousand successful blood draws in 4 weeks. After I began my phlebotomist job at Banner Baywood, at the start of my shifts I was charged with collecting blood from patients that everyone else had difficulty with during the earlier shift. This happened because I was really good at blood draws on difficult patients. My training from PMI really helped me be successful.
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After high school I got my bachelor's degree in social work and began working in hospitals, nursing homes, and group homes. I was always in the health care arena. In fact, I started as a candy stripper at a local hospital while in high school! After a number of years in social work, I began having children and I chose to stay home with them for 10 years. While considering returning to work, I had an MRI and I began looking into radiology. While the local community college had a 5 year wait, I was able to start the Radiography program at Pima Medical Institute immediately.
I loved being a student at PMI. It was a tough program but my classmates and I helped each other through and we're still friends today. During my last rotation at Banner UMC I was offered a position as a radiography technician and I worked there for 5 years. It was an exciting place to work and I obtained a wealth of experience. As I was beginning to consider moving into a teaching role, I heard PMI was looking for an instructor. Becoming an instructor at PMI, and now a Clinical Director, enables me to still be involved in a type of social work, but with a very, very positive spin. I get to watch our students mature and grow professionally. I have so much admiration for some of my students who courageously overcome huge obstacles to complete this program.
I've worked for a number of companies, but I've never worked for a better company than Pima Medical Institute. Having graduated from PMI and now teaching here, I understand the caring culture and I'm able to carry that forward and that's important. I love seeing my former students out at the hospitals and hearing how happy they are in their profession. Plus, now I get to watch them take care of our current clinical students. I love my job! Thanks PM!!
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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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Which program did you complete and what made you decide to continue your education online?
I started with the Associate of Applied Science in Health Care Administration and later moved on to the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration.
What made you choose PMI's program?
I chose to take advantage of PMI's online program for a couple of reasons. Although I had many years of experience working in the medical field and was a certified Medical Assistant and Surgical Technician, I did not have a formal education on how to manage and run a medical practice. The other reason was to benefit my students. As an instructor, it is hard to advise students and promote an online education if you have not taken the online courses yourself.
What was it like to manage a full-time position and your course load?
Managing a full-time position and the course load was not very difficult; however it did take some planning. When attending classes on a campus you will have a class at a specific time daily, however, online courses are not like this. While there are specific due dates and times for assignments to be submitted, you are able to work on this material on your own schedule. The key is to create a schedule for yourself in order to be successful.
Did you feel like the coursework was practical for your profession?
The coursework was absolutely practical for the medical professionals. Every course that I have taken online with PMI has made me a better leader and professional in the medical field. The Associates of Applied Science in Health Care Administration and Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration programs are packed full of courses that are beneficial in educating people on how to run and manage any type of medical practice. These are only a few of the many essential skills I have acquired through this online program.
Would you encourage others to continue their education and would you recommend this program?
I would encourage anyone that wants a leadership role in the medical field to continue their education with these programs, even if they do not see themselves as an office manager. The programs can prepare anyone for leadership within specific departments and can improve anyone's resume so they can obtain their dream job.
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While initially interested in Dental Hygiene (DH), at age 18, I chose to pursue Dental Assisting (DA) instead, partly because I was hesitant to commit to a university four-year DH program. Later, as I learned about Pima Medical Institute's two-year DH program, my research told me it was highly reputable and very challenging. This both intrigued me and motivated me and I enrolled.
During my third semester an unexpected pregnancy brought huge challenges. My baby son was diagnosed with gastroschisis, a high-risk condition requiring frequent medical visits and a 54-day stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Despite the challenges of being a new mother and the emotional strain of the situation, I remained determined to succeed in my studies. I studied and completed assignments while at the NICU, my son serving as my inspiration. He was a reminder of my strength and my determination to never give up on my dreams. My DA employer had been supportive and excited about my becoming a Dental Hygienist and invited me to join their team as a DH upon obtaining my license.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of my instructors at Pima Medical for their unwavering support during my journey, especially as I navigated the challenges of my son's condition. Each instructor was incredibly helpful and supportive, always striving for my success. I am confident in the quality of education I received and would enthusiastically recommend it to others. While the program is rigorous, it is definitely achievable-I am living proof of that!
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Pima Medical Institute has been a cornerstone in my career, providing a foundation that has endured through different stages of my life. Now, I'm excited to return to school and build on that strong base.
No one in my family is in the dental field, but I've always had a passion for becoming a dental hygienist. After high school, I spent five years working in Alaska's fishing industry. Upon returning to Seattle, I inquired about the Dental Hygiene program at Pima Medical Institute and ultimately enrolled in the Dental Assistant program. Balancing full-time work during the day with evening classes at Pima Medical was challenging but rewarding. My teacher was great, and I formed lasting friendships-I'm still close with one of my classmates more than 20 years later.
My first job was with a doctor in West Seattle, where I worked for two years before needing to go on bed rest due to pregnancy. I took a 15-year break to focus on being a mom. Remarkably, I was able to jump right back into my career as a Dental Assistant when I was ready. After moving to Phoenix, I started working as a temp and then secured my current position at Anthem Sonoran Valley Implants and Dental Center. It felt like riding a bike-everything came back to me. I love educating patients and helping them take care of their teeth. Currently, I'm in the process of applying to a Dental Hygiene program in my area. I want to further my education in the dental field and one day I hope to be able to clean teeth for free to help people who can't afford dental care.
Pima Medical Institute has been supportive throughout my journey, from enrolling and securing financing to ongoing assistance whenever I need it. I'm incredibly grateful for the education and opportunities Pima Medical has provided me.
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Dentistry was always in my plan, but life took a turn when I became a young mom while attending NMSU (New Mexico State University). Returning home, I started working for a family friend's dental practice, fell in love with the field, and decided to officially pursue a career in Dental Assisting (DA). I was looking for a fast-paced program and Pima Medical Institute was the perfect fit. My experience there was fantastic-I applied what I learned on the job and made lifelong friends.
After working as a dental assistant for a year, I decided to further my career and enrolled in the Dental Hygiene (DH) program at Pima Medical. The program was challenging, but the instructors were incredible. I was taught by some of the icons of dental hygiene and I thrived in the rigorous environment. Upon graduation, I quickly secured a job as a dental hygienist, working five days a week to maximize my education. Over time, I got married, had another son, and excelled in my career, and began working in a corporate dental setting. In 2021, I returned to Pima Medical as an instructor in the hygiene clinic, a full-circle moment. To say I loved it would be an understatement. Not only did I find my passion for teaching, I got to continue learning alongside my students.
Currently, I'm preparing to open New Mexico's first dental hygiene studio to meet the needs of preventative care. I hope to employ several dental hygienists and we plan to collaborate with local dentists. I'm also starting a dental hygiene consulting business. I am excited about this business venture and genuinely credit my success to the education I received at Pima Medical. I am incredibly grateful to my instructors for shaping me into the professional I am today.
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At age 19, I started at Pima Medical Institute after realizing that my initial path at UNM wasn't the right fit for me at that time. A friend suggested looking into CT technology, and after some research, I found that Pima Medical's Radiography (RAD) program offered a quicker and more fitting path to my career goals. The structured environment in the RAD program was exactly what I needed, although it wasn't always easy. My father passed away during my second semester, which made it tough to stay on track, but with the support of the school, I persevered. The clinical experiences were mostly positive, giving me valuable hands-on learning. Even in challenging situations, I gained skills by working independently, which proved to be great learning experiences.
Graduating in 2004, I entered the workforce during a tech shortage and quickly landed a job. I started in x-ray and, over the years, expanded my expertise by becoming registered in mammography, bone density, and MRI. However, I chose to focus on mammography, as it offered a better work-life balance compared to MRI.
After a decade at a hospital, I transitioned to a quieter clinic setting where I could work more independently, which suits me well. I've been at a small clinic for nearly a year now, enjoying the stability and better hours. Alongside my career, I'm also completing my bachelor's degree in university studies, thanks to a state program offering free classes to those close to finishing their degree.
Looking ahead, I'm content with where I am but open to new opportunities, possibly in management. Pima Medical set me up for success, giving me the tools I needed to start and grow my career in radiology. Now 20 years later, I'm grateful for the education and experiences that have brought me to where I am today.
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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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