After completing a bachelor's degree, I was still left without a career. I worked the front desk at an eye doctor's office for 3 years and when the doctor decided to retire, I knew I needed to find a career. I was fascinated with x-rays so began looking into radiography programs. I heard a radio advertisement for PMI. When I learned I could begin almost immediately, unlike other programs I'd researched, I enrolled in their Radiography Program.
I found the program to be completely different than my university student experience. I had the same 30 classmates throughout the program, all with the same goal, and we became friends. The instructors made it fun to learn and the hands-on-experience was invaluable. I felt prepared and hit the ground running when I got to my clinicals. I had a great experience at Maricopa Medical Center and they called me about a job not long after graduation. It wasn't long before I became a clinical instructor and a lead. I am currently supervisor of diagnostic imaging and I look forward to coming to work every day!
I'm currently getting my master's degree in Public Health, which fits very well with this particular hospital as we service the underserved. I received a great education at PMI and I've come full circle in that now I help train new students just as I once was. Pima Medical Institute is well spoken of around here and I'm proud of that.
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I was born and raised in Bisbee, Arizona, and I'm proud to be a first-generation college student. My interest in radiology began in fourth grade after a broken wrist landed me in the ER. I was fascinated by the X-ray process, and that moment never left me.
After high school, I shadowed in the radiology department at a local hospital where my mother worked and decided to apply at Pima Medial Institute. I didn't get in the first time, but I gained more experience, took classes and eventually reapplied after COVID. I was accepted! And that changed everything.
The program was tough, especially being far from home and dealing with personal loss. But I was never alone. Kristen Miller, Jolene Pobrislo and Jeff Botkin supported me every step of the way. They believed in me, and I always knew I could reach out for help.
Today, I work as a radiologic technologist performing X-rays and bone density scans. I hope to add Computed Tomography (CT) to my credentials and grow into a hospital role. Pima Medical gave me the knowledge, confidence and care to make my dreams possible. And now, I get to show my grandparents every day that their sacrifices were worth it.
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I had a successful career as a technical writer for a large software company, but I still saw it as only a job. In 2004, I was fortunate enough to go to Romania on a volunteer vacation, working with children who had been abandoned. As a team, we were able to choose the group we worked with and I chose the group no one else wanted to work with, the special needs group. That single choice made a significant, life-changing impact. Returning to work back in the U.S. made me realize how meaningless my job was as a technical writer.
I decided to pursue a career as a Physical Therapist Assistant. I called Pima Medical Institute, which had the best reputation in Colorado, and the following Monday I started on my new career path. The program was challenging but the dedication of the instructors helped to keep me motivated. I love this profession and feel passionate about motivating people to do things they thought they could not do. Last year I was appointed the PTA Caucus Representative for the New Mexico American Physical Therapy Association, where I represent the profession of PTAs in the state. I also have the privilege to be an instructor in the PTA program at Pima's Albuquerque Campus. Each day I wake up excited to share this passion with others and, hopefully, pass it on to my students.
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While in the military, I became interested in the pharmacy field, but was unable to pursue it. When I arrived at Pima, I felt warmly welcomed the minute I walked in the door and it confirmed my decision to attend. I had a wonderful instructor! He was very attentive and always willing to help. He taught me what my job duties would entail and the future issues I might experience out in the job field. Pima helped me become a professional.
With the help of the career services advisors, I was able to find a job within two weeks of graduation. I really enjoy my new job and love what I do! I want to thank my instructor, Mr Feaver, for everything he's done for me and for his dedication to educating his students. Thanks PMI!
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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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In 2012 I was in a bad accident and spent time in the hospital. This experience enabled me to observe the nurses and see how they cared for people. I had been working as a team lead at Target for a number of years but I decided that I wanted to do more than help people spend money, so I began pursuing the medical field. I started as a CNA and after 4 years decided I wanted to attend school to become an LPN.
I heard about Pima Medical Institute on the radio and got excited about attending their Practical Nursing program. I have to admit my first sequence of classes was really challenging! The whole program was a huge learning experience for me, but my hard work paid off. I appreciated how the whole program was laid out ahead of time, including our course work and the schedule. This really helped us be successful.
I was offered a job at my clinical site. The administrator took notice of me and offered me a position as a unit manager, not your typical first job as an LPN. I believe Pima Medical helped me develop a level of confidence that made a difference in obtaining this position. Recently, I was contacted by another facility and offered a job as another unit manager. I am honored and proud that in such a short time my education and hard work has provided opportunities for growth in my career. Pima Medical prepared me to be successful. The encouragement and support I got from my instructors was just overwhelming, and it's an experience I am always going to cherish.
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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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My sister graduated from Pima Medical Institute's Medical Assistant program, which made me look up to her. Right after high school, I tried to attend the program but didn't qualify for financial aid and I was devastated. About four years later, after having a child and working, I woke up one morning and knew I needed to fulfill my dream of a career in the medical field. It had always been in the back of my mind, but I knew it was time. I called Pima Medical, set up an appointment and enrolled in the program.
I was at the campus for exactly one week before COVID hit and they closed the campus and went to virtual learning. I was devastated because I had tried online classes before and didn't do well. But my instructors were great and I surprised myself and I did really well. My instructor made the process easy, she was always available to help and I had a great experience.
I was offered a full-time position with Banner Health at an urgent care before I'd even graduated. I love the fast paced environment and I work with a great team. We are the first person our patients see and they're often fearful and our job is to help keep them calm. We are seeing lots of COVID patients right now and they are very anxious. I love being able to reassure them it's going to be OK.
I'm so thankful for Pima Medical Institute and I appreciate the knowledge my instructors have instilled in me. It's made me the Medical Assistant I am today. I just love my job!
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When I first started my journey in health care, I was on track to become a nurse. After working as a phlebotomist for three years, I quit my job focusing on finishing the last few prerequisites for nursing school. However, life had other plans. I got pregnant with my now four-year-old daughter and took a year and a half off to spend time with her. In 2020, I began to reconsider my career path. I realized that the clinical side of healthcare was no longer my passion; instead, I was drawn to the administration and business side. After researching various degrees, I chose the online Health Care Administration (HCA) associate and bachelor's programs at Pima Medical Institute.
My experience at Pima Medical was incredible. Both programs' flexibility and the support from instructors and advisors were exceptional. They fit perfectly into my busy life as a full-time employee, wife and mother. The instructors were always available and willing to assist with anything I needed. The resources provided to students, from class scheduling to financial guidance, made everything so manageable. Upon completion of my bachelor's degree, I found a position as a Program Administrator at Baylor University Medical Center in Texas, managing the OBGYN, Hematology/Oncology, and Mechanical Circulatory Support programs and residents. I am currently working full-time and exploring graduate programs for Health Care Administration and Business Administration. My future goals include becoming certified in health care emergency management to effectively plan and respond to emergencies.
Thank you, Pima Medical Institute, for your guidance and support. Completing my degrees with you has been a wonderful experience, allowing me to achieve goals I never thought possible.
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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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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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My journey into healthcare wasn't planned. During my senior year of high school, I was preparing to study engineering when my dad passed away. It was a tough time, and I decided to take a break. My mom, a nurse, suggested I become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), so I completed an accelerated program and started working at Silver Hills Healthcare Center in Las Vegas. I never imagined a career in long-term care, but I excelled as a CNA and was promoted to rehab aide. One day my regional director, who saw potential in me, signed me up for an informational seminar at Pima Medical Institute for the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program. I attended, was intrigued, and decided to enroll.
Balancing school and work wasn't easy, but Pima Medical made it possible. I worked flexible hours, attended classes and studied late into the evenings. The instructors were experienced, and the small class sizes made learning enjoyable. When I took the national licensing exam, I achieved one of the highest scores my instructor had ever seen. After working in the field, I wanted to grow my career even more, so I enrolled in Pima Medical's online Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration (BSHCA) program. Today, I'm an Assistant Administrator at Alta Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, finishing my Administrator in Training program. Soon, I'll sit for the licensing exam to become a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, and my ultimate goal is to own a skilled nursing facility.
Pima Medical gave me the tools and confidence to succeed. Their programs may cost a bit more, but they are efficient and effective with no prerequisites. I received a quality education at Pima Medical and I'm proud to be a graduate!
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