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.
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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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There are many reasons I chose to attend Pima Medical Institute. Being a military wife, I wanted to choose a school and program that would allow me to work in other states if necessary. Upon my first tour of the campus, I felt welcomed and at home. My admissions advisor believed in me and was so encouraging. I also chose PMI because of the schedule, smaller class size, and the hands on training. PMI made it easy for me to attend classes and work full time.
During my time as a student I faced many challenges. I was struggling with finances and I found out I was pregnant two weeks before classes started. But, my financial aid advisor answered questions, helped me apply for grants, and made the process seamless. My instructors were knowledgeable and challenged me to reach new heights. I'll never forget the encouragement they gave me. PMI helped me keep focused and even worked around my maternity leave.
Pima Medical Institute not only helped me with job placement, resumes, and interviews, they gave me the tools to succeed. After graduation, I was accepted into a company that promoted me to a lead assistant position in under two years. I now get to walk into a job that I love, and I am rewarded with the opportunity to help change lives one smile at a time.
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One night my beloved cat was hit by a car, I rushed to the emergency hospital, but my cat didn't survive. As I was standing in the room another emergency situation came in, and as I observed the technicians and veterinarians at work, it was like a light bulb went on in my head. I knew in that moment that this is exactly what I want to do with my life. That same night I was on my computer trying to learn who those people were and how I could get that training. Pima Medical Institute came up in my search and shortly after I visited the campus and learned about the Veterinary Assistant program, I enrolled.
I was so afraid to go back to school because I'd already had a horrible experience with college. But it was wonderful! Everyone was helpful; there were small classes and lots of one-on-one time with amazing instructors. I worked for three years in emergency medicine and then moved to Veterinary Centers of America where I worked in ICU for three years.
Recently, I was recruited to work at Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute. They serve humanity through animal research on the prevention, treatment and cure of respiratory diseases. It's an amazing job. We do studies for large drug companies. For example, today I worked with swine drawing blood and working with IV's for a special study. It's exciting to play a role in the future of modern medicine. I'm a level three Veterinary Technician working with some of the best veterinarians and doctors in the country conducting very important and impactful studies. It's all because of Pima Medical that I am where I am today!
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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.
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I attended a university where I obtained my bachelor's degree in communications, but after working a number of jobs that didn't really utilize my degree, I began considering the medical field. I wanted to get started as soon as possible, so I bypassed the community college program that had a list of prerequisites and enrolled in Pima Medical Institute's Radiography program. Even though the cost was a little more, unlike the other programs, everything from books to uniforms were included in the tuition price.
I appreciated the schedule and structure of the program that allowed time for class, work and study. Our class was quite a diverse group with students right out of high school and older students looking for their second career, but we worked really well together. I was able to obtain a job less than a month after graduation at an orthopedic clinic and enjoyed working there for almost three years. After moving to El Paso, I began working as a Lead Tech at The Hospitals of Providence, Sierra Campus. At first, I didn't realize there even was a campus in El Paso, but I was so excited to meet other Pima Medical students at my hospital. Now several years later, I have joined the team at Pima Medical El Paso where I am currently the RAD Clinical Director.
Shortly before my graduation, someone came and spoke to us about Pima Medical's online programs. And even though I already had a bachelor's degree, I decided to enroll in the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS). I found I was easily able to transition right into the program, they accepted many of my previous university credits and I finished in about a year. Much of what I learned in that program is helping me in my current position and I'm planning to start the master's program in the near future.
I am very happy that I chose Pima Medical Institute - I got the best education!
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My mother had a neuromuscular disease called Myasthenia Gravis, which resulted in her needing to be intubated and trached throughout her life, so I was familiar with respiratory. At age 19, I started my career path in the medical field as a transporter at Sunrise Hospital. As I worked with and observed the Respiratory Therapists (RT), I began to understand the importance of their profession. I knew then, this was the career for me, so I enrolled in Pima Medical Institute's RT program.
I appreciated the support from both administration and instructors and their belief that I could become a productive member of the RT community. My classmates provided support throughout the rigorous program and there was a great camaraderie among us. I remember having study sessions, gatherings, and cookouts in the parking lot with the faculty, staff and students. Having the opportunity to work in professional clinical settings while in school provided the perspective I needed and upon graduation, I was promoted to a full-time Respiratory Therapist at my hospital. I also worked with University Medical Center (UMC). I continued my education in Pima Medical's Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT) and then went on to complete my Master's Degree in Business Administration at Columbia Southern University. I am still employed with UMC as their Senior Respiratory Therapist and I have been a Clinical Instructor for Pima Medical Institute's Las Vegas Campus since 2016. My eventual goal is to move into hospital administration becoming a VP or COO.
I am very thankful for Pima Medical Institute. Anything worth having is worth working for, and true education is what you are willing to put into it whether you're at Yale, Harvard or Pima Medical. Therefore, always attempt to set the standard of excellence in everything you do and everything you love.
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I started my journey to become a nurse back in my twenties, but my plans kept getting interrupted. At the age of 49, after years of being in various office jobs and property management roles, I finally decided to pursue my lifelong dream. When I stumbled upon an advertisement for Pima Medical Institute's one-year Practical Nursing program, something just clicked and I knew it was time.
Entering the program, I was the oldest among my classmates, but age was never a barrier. We were all there with a common purpose, united in our determination to succeed. My instructors were awesome and were clearly there to help us get through and be successful. Despite any doubt's others had about my starting a new career later in life, I knew it was never too late to pursue my passion. My life experience brought a unique perspective to my studies, making certain topics easier to grasp. My maturity gave me confidence and I eagerly volunteered for tasks in clinicals wanting to immerse myself in real-world experience.
After graduation, I embarked on my nursing career, initially working in long-term care facilities. After moving to Mississippi, I found my place at Enhabit Home Health and Hospice in Mississippi, where I am an LPN/Patient Services Coordinator. I love my job and appreciate helping my patients from a whole person perspective. It's a great fit for me. Looking back, I can confidently say that enrolling at Pima Medical was one of the best decisions I've ever made. It's never too late to chase your dreams.
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After moving from Texas to Colorado for a fresh start, I was determined to build a stable career in the medical field. Research led me to Pima Medical Institute, and from the moment I began speaking with admissions, I knew it was the right choice. Despite facing many challenges, I embarked on the Medical Assistant (MA) program with unwavering determination.
I started living in my car three weeks after starting the MA program. I was juggling homelessness, school and a full-time job. I struggled finding safe places to park, hot and cold nights, and finding time between work and school to do homework, sleep and get to the gym to take showers. I found incredible support from caring and understanding instructors who became like family to me. They provided resources and encouragement, helping me navigate the toughest moments. As difficult as my situation was, school was my biggest motivation and the people at Pima Medical were my support and prepared me for my future. Thanks to great instructors and comprehensive training, I excelled at my externship at Advanced Urgent Care, impressing my supervisors enough to secure a job offer before even graduating.
To my instructors at Pima Medical, I owe a debt of gratitude. I am the person I am today because of you. Your unwavering support and belief in me kept me going when times were toughest. Thank you for never giving up on me. You've shaped me into the professional I am today and I will forever be grateful.
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After completing high school, I was looking for a temporary source of income that would pay enough to allow me to put myself through college. I had several family members who had attended various programs at Pima Medical Institute, so decided to enroll in their nine-month Pharmacy Technician program, figuring it might be a quick way to make more than the average college student.
The class schedules were ideal, allowing me to work while going to school. It was a strenuous curriculum but my instructor, a Doctor of Pharmacy with many years of experience, ensured his students became successful Pharmacy Technicians. He knew exactly what made a great technician and he prepared us well to become nationally recognized Certified Pharmacy Technicians.
I have spent the past 17 years as a Pharmacy Technician working in inpatient pharmacy performing sterile and chemotherapy compounding. I moved away from Arizona about seven years ago and I was hired at the VA Medical Center, where I was quickly promoted to Lead IV Trainer.
Recently, the Mayo Clinic in Mankato reached out to me and offered me a job as their Technician Supervisor with a focus in Sterile Compounding. The temporary job I thought would support further education became my career. I am very proud of my work as a Pharmacy Technician and I'm thankful for my Pima Medical instructor. As a result of being trained by him, I feel like my career has been really distinguished and for that I will always be grateful.
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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.
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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.
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