I once dreamt of a high power job working on the top floor of a sky scraper. I graduated with my bachelor's and obtained a good position with a fortune 500 company where I learned valuable information, but felt unfulfilled. I had a desire to help people and make a difference, so when my mother suggested looking into occupational therapy I jumped in feet first.
I enrolled in Pima Medical Institute's Occupational Therapy Assistant program because their accelerated curriculum, class schedule and location fit my needs. My experience was quite different than my bachelor's had been, in that the instructors had on-the-job experience and there was significantly more hands-on learning. As students, we were encouraged to become involved in the OT community and I continue to play an active role by holding board positions and sitting on ad hoc committees in our state associations. Through networking, I received a position in subacute rehabilitation and worked my way into management.
Currently, I am an OTA instructor back at the PMI campus where I once attended. It wasn't that long ago I sat in those same chairs and, consequently, I understand the challenges and pressures my students face. I didn't just find a job; I found a profession and a career I am proud of and extremely happy to support on a daily basis. I am thankful to PMI for the education I received and now for the opportunity to continue to educate others in the OTA profession. I'm not in a sky scraper (although my office is on the 5th floor) but I love my job!
|
I wasn't completely sure about going back to school until I walked through the doors at Pima Medical Institute. From the moment I took the tour and sat down for the exam, Admissions Representative Mary Mikiel made me feel welcomed and encouraged. I don't love taking tests, but her support and positive energy truly made a difference that day. A few days later, she called to tell me I had only missed one question - and that I was officially accepted into the Medical Assistant program.
Starting the program, I connected quickly with my classmates and discovered a great sense of community. My instructors were not only knowledgeable, but genuinely invested in my success. There were five of us who graduated together, and that experience gave me newfound confidence in myself. I was working full time while attending school, and although it wasn't easy, I proved to myself that I could push through the ups and downs and make it to graduation day. I started working at a fast-paced urgent care where everything I learned at Pima Medical came flooding back like second nature.
After about a year of hard work, I was encouraged to apply for a higher position. I'm proud to say I am now the Center Manager at Carbon Health Carlsbad. None of this would have been possible without the incredible support and encouragement I received from the staff and instructors at Pima Medical. They believed in me when I didn't fully believe in myself and constantly pushed me to grow. For that, I will always be grateful. Pima Medical Institute didn't just prepare me for a career, they helped me believe in myself.
|
I was working as an LPN and looking to become an RN. I found Pima was the best option for me because they offered a bridge program (LPN to RN) and their schedule afforded me the opportunity to continue to work and support my family while going to school. The instructors respected us and took our knowledge and experiences as LPNs into account and helped us understand what would be required of us as RNs. It was a great program and I have referred family members and multiple nurses to Pima. I really appreciated the great job they did preparing us for our boards. I was so nervous for my LPN boards, walking into my RN boards was a totally different experience because I felt prepared and confident.
Upon graduation, I continued to work at Kindred Hospital in their ICU. I later transferred to Loveless Hospital where within a year, I became house supervisor. Essentially, I supervised every nursing unit from OR, ER, and Pediatrics to, Labor and Delivery. I am currently head of pediatrics ABQ Helath Partners. I am the Nursing Supervisor and I run 3 pediatric clinics and supervise all medical staff.
I've continued my education with PMI and will soon complete my bachelor's degree and I have future goals after that. I credit Pima and their training for the reason I have advanced so quickly in my profession.
|
Upon graduating from high school, the only real option presented to me by my parents was to earn a bachelor's degree from a 4-year university. I tried, but it was a difficult time of life. I dropped out after 1 year and spent 8 years waiting tables and attending a local community college. Then I learned about Pima Medical Institute's Ophthalmic Medical Technician program from one of my husband's family members.
Hearing about a 2-year program that led directly to a career in the medical field sounded amazing! I enrolled and loved the OMT program. I didn't find the coursework difficult because I was so interested in it. I got along well with my classmates; a group of us would even arrive an hour early every day to study together. My instructors were great, and I looked forward to going to class daily!
I learned so much from my clinical experience and had the privilege of working with an amazing cornea specialist in the Denver area. At the end of my rotation, he offered me a position. I was promoted to lead technician, am currently in charge of the operating room, where I assist in surgeries, and I have recently been given the opportunity to step into the role of laser programmer. I learn something new every day and I could not be happier in my career.
PMI was a perfect fit for me! I am currently serving on their advisory board, and I want people to know that a bachelor's degree is not the only path to an amazing job!
|
I spent nine years as a helicopter mechanic in the Marine Corps and when I got out I began working at the local airport as a mechanic. I didn't really feel like I was going anywhere in my job, so my wife who had completed the Medical Assistant program through Pima Medical Institute, suggested I go there and find a career I enjoyed. My dad completed the Medical Lab Technician program years ago and my mom actually went through Pima Medical's Radiography program and is still working at Tucson Medical Center. So, I decided to see what they had to offer and signed up for their nine month Pharmacy Technician Program.
I loved the program! In the Marine Corps comradery is a big deal and I was used to having that close knit family atmosphere. I came to Pima Medical and immediately felt at home. My instructor was there to direct me and provide whatever I needed to be confident and successful. My training allowed me to easily transition into my externship at Tucson Medical Center and before I had even finished, they offered me a position.
Immediately after graduation I enrolled in Pima Medical's Online Health Care Administration associate of applied science degree program and have recently graduated from the bachelor's program. I have been able to work fulltime, spend time with my family and complete my homework each day for my online classes. The instructors are flexible and easy to reach for guidance and I've had a great experience. I almost didn't notice I wasn't in a classroom setting. I am currently a Pharmacy Tech 2 and, as a result of getting my bachelor's, I am being trained to cover and assist our buyers. I love my new career and it's very fulfilling! My dream job ... coming back to Pima Medical as an instructor!
|
I worked as a hospice CNA and was a caregiver for over 10 years. I was happy and I loved taking care of people, but I had kids and was struggling to make ends meet. I knew I needed a career that would financially support my family. I considered becoming an RN, but I had a daughter who experienced craniofacial reconstruction surgeries and through this I was exposed to the Radiology field. I chose the Radiology Program at Pima Medical Institute because it was fast track and there was no waiting list.
Being a student was amazing and I loved my teachers, but it was difficult for me! I am a hands-on person and not a great book learner. My kids really saw me struggle with math and they saw me persevere. During the program our family struggled with some personal issues which forced us into homelessness. In fact, our family was living in a hotel when I started my clinicals. I lost everything, but I didn't give up! My classmates and instructors were amazing! There was such a sense of family and I have never felt so supported; they even offered to have a car wash to raise money for my family. My classmates and I are still in contact and I regularly speak with my instructors. By the time I went through my graduation ceremony, I had two job offers. I've since worked in hospital, orthopedic, and pain clinic settings and I'm currently in a bachelor degree program and am enjoying working for a mobile lab company.
I wouldn't be where I am today without my PMI instructors and my classmates!
|
I grew up in a medical environment as my dad was a Navy doctor and my mom was a nurse. I ended up getting a bachelor's degree in biology and after working for a time in construction, decided my love of animals was prompting me to pursue a career in the veterinary field. I heard about Pima Medical Institute and liked the idea that I would get experience in the field through their Veterinary Assistant program.
I still remember my first day of the VA program when my instructor looked at me and said, "You have a degree and are way overqualified for this." I explained I wanted to learn the basics of caring for animals and get hands-on experience. It's been over 25 years and that instructor and I are still in touch. She always told us, "I can teach you how to do a procedure correctly, but it's more important to teach you the WHY." I still emphasize this and repeat it often to my staff.
While working as a VA, I applied to veterinary schools, but my bachelor's degree GPA was low and I was rejected from many vet schools. Finally, I was accepted at an offshore school in the Caribbean and later transferred to Kansas State, where I earned my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2002. I was a Veterinarian at a couple of clinics before owning my own. Over the years, I have hired graduates from Pima Medical and have taken their externs. They still offer a very good program and teach the basics.
My time at Pima Medical was an opportunity and a doorway into the veterinary world. I am a great example that it's not always about grades. If you have passion and are willing to work hard, you can accomplish your goals. My mom always told me, "As long as you are doing something you love, you'll be happy!" Down the road, I think I might enjoy returning to Pima Medical ... this time as an instructor.
|
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.
|
My story is a bit unique in the way I came to Pima Medical Institute. I was in the Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at Brightwood College in 2018 when it suddenly closed its doors. Pima Medical was willing to take those displaced students, so without other options I decided to give it a go. Since Pima Medical didn't have a CNA program, I chose their Medical Assistant (MA) program.
My experience at Pima Medical was exceptional! I had great instructors and I felt like I got a fantastic education. One specific thing I really appreciated about the curriculum was that we were able to learn all different aspects of the roles of our profession. For example, although I've never worked as a front office MA, I was able to learn those roles and understand their responsibilities as well.
Two days after finishing my program, I was on a plane moving to Colorado. I began applying for jobs as soon as I got settled and had no trouble finding a position. I was hired as an MA at Pueblo Community Health Center where I will soon be celebrating five years. Currently, I am also completing prerequisites so I can go back to school to achieve my dream of becoming an RN.
Pima Medical Institute has great programs and amazing instructors! I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting a career in the medical field. If their location here in Colorado offered an RN program, I would already be signed up. I appreciate everything all of my instructors did for me and I wouldn't be where I am without them.
|
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.
|
After running a travel agency for fifteen years, I began searching for a new career in the medical field. I'd always been interested in photography, so radiology seemed like a natural fit. At 43, I returned to school to earn my associate degree in Radiologic Science.
I gained experience working at a regional hospital in Minnesota, learning X-ray, CT, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine. Then in 2014, my husband and I, looking to fulfill our dream, moved to Alaska where I became a multi-modality technologist with Providence in Seward. Eventually, I stepped into the role of Diagnostic Imaging Supervisor, leading a $1.8 million department remodel to improve patient care. Upgrading our equipment to include a new CT scanner and digital X-ray systems has enabled us to offer year-round mammography, allowing for earlier breast cancer detection and better outcomes.
In 2023, my love for learning led me to Pima Medical Institute, where I completed my Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science (BSRS) online. Graduating with honors was a major accomplishment. I was especially impressed with the instructors and the quality of education at Pima Medical, and I'm proud to be a graduate.
We are a critical care access hospital that sees patients from around the world. Tourists visit our community for various reasons, such as sport fishing, sightseeing, mountain hiking, mountain biking and cruise ships. This year we had ninety-six cruise ships bringing thousands of passengers on and off the ship. In my role, I often meet patients on one of the toughest days of their lives. My goal is to make a difference for them. I'm grateful for the skills and support from Pima Medical that has allowed me to provide the best care possible.
|
I have always wanted a career in healthcare. I had previously pursued a nursing route, but was discouraged and unsure if nursing was really what I wanted to do. I came to Pima Medical Institute interested in the Pharmacy Technician program, but the admissions counselor I spoke to asked if I had heard about Respiratory Therapy (RT). She showed me a video explaining what an RT did and I was sold. Then and there, I found my calling. I was meant to be a Respiratory Therapist. I graduated from the Respiratory Therapy (RT) program with an Associate of Occupational Science in 2011. Knowing where the industry was headed, and my drive to move beyond bedside, I enrolled in the online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program (BSRT) and graduated in 2014. Since then I have worked in a critical access hospital, an acute care hospital, and a level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The NICU was my favorite place to work and where I excelled. My experience allowed me to sit for three additional specialty certifications, adding some hard-earned credentials to my resume.
Along the way, I found my second calling and passion - teaching all things respiratory. I continued on to obtain a Master's degree, which opened up another door for career advancement. I began teaching in a local respiratory therapy program while still working bedside, waiting to make the full transition into education. Fortunately, an opportunity came up to teach in the very same program here at Pima Medical Institute where I had attended 14 years earlier. Here I am, walking the same halls and teaching in the same classrooms I was a student in many years ago. I've come full circle from student to faculty ... I am still learning and doing what I love!
|
