At the age of 16 I became pregnant and had to drop out of high school. Later, I attended a program for teen moms and graduated as their valedictorian. But, my attempts to attend college were futile and I soon had another child and began working at a call center. My desire to be a medical professional never left me, and on my way home from work, I started driving past Pima Medical where I would sit in the parking lot watching students come and go. I just couldn't get up the nerve to go inside. As a result of my emotionally unstable relationship, I did not feel worthy or capable of anything. One day, a student walking near my car dropped all his books and papers. I jumped out of the car to help him and he looked me in the eye and said, "You've been sitting out here every day for a month - what are you waiting for?" God speaks in mysterious ways. I went inside and signed up for the Medical Assistant program.
It was difficult working, going to school and caring for my children. I knew I had to leave Albuquerque because of my unstable relationship, so Pima Medical arranged an externship for me in Phoenix. My instructors and classmates not only helped me pack, they raised money to help fund the move for me and my kids.
I was offered a position during my externship. I became the lead assistant quickly and then their office manager. After a few years, I moved to Scottsdale Physicians Group where I am a director over 38 other MA's. I am continuing my education in Pima Medical's online Health Care Administration program with plans to complete my bachelor's degree. I am still breaking the cycle. Pima Medical transformed my life both personally and professionally!
|
I had been working at a grocery store for 12 years when I decided it was time for a change. I hadn't been in school in a very long time and wasn't quite ready to commit to a four-year university. When I found Pima Medical Institute, it felt like the right fit for me in my stage of life. I chose the nine-month Medical Assistant (MA) program because I viewed it as a great stepping stone into a career in the medical field.
I really enjoyed my time at Pima Medical. It was exciting to be in a learning environment surrounded by students who were all motivated to succeed. My biggest challenge was balancing full-time work with evening classes while still finding time to study. It wasn't easy, but I did it! The thing I appreciated most about Pima Medical was the genuine commitment to student success. There was always help available whenever I had questions or needed support. Because of that, I walked out of the program feeling prepared and confident in my new profession.
Upon graduation, I quickly found a job and began working as a Medical Assistant with Providence in family practice, where I stayed for six years. Currently, I work for Optum Primary Care, continuing my career in family medicine. While at Providence, I had the opportunity to be a preceptor in the apprentice program, and I hope to take on that role again at Optum in the future. Educating and mentoring others is a passion of mine, and I look forward to continuing to make a difference in the field of healthcare.
|
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.
|
My senior year of high school I attended EVIT (East Valley Institute of Technology) and became a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant). At the age of 18, I began working in a hospital setting and knew then I wanted a career in the medical field. I wasn't quite ready for an intense nursing program, so after meeting with an advisor at Pima Medical Institute, I chose their Patient Care Technician (PCT) program. This eight month program provided exposure to a variety of healthcare procedures, enabled me to move up into a job in ER at my hospital and gave me the perfect foundation for transitioning into nursing.
After researching several other schools, I chose Pima Medical's Nursing program because it had everything I was looking for; a quick admission, smaller class sizes and a fast track program.
The thing I appreciated the most about my education at Pima Medical was how much my instructors were willing to help me; offering to stay late or provide resources to help me. They completely prepared me for my career and to this day, I hear their voices in my head as I attempt procedures. Today, I am a full-time RN at Cardon Children's Medical Center. I have obtained certifications in pediatric advanced life support (PALS) and trauma nursing core course (TNCC) and am currently enrolled in a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program.
I am so grateful to Pima Medical and my instructors. A year ago I was struggling to get through school and today I love working my three night shifts and I'm living my dream! I recommend Pima Medical to everyone. It was the best decision I ever made!
|
At a young age I had the opportunity to shadow a veterinarian, Dr. Katherine Parks, and my passion was ignited! Each spring break I continued to visit her clinic and during that time I made the decision to become a Veterinary Technician (VT). I had no interest in attending a four-year college as I was career driven and was anxious to get out and work in the field.
I loved the VT program at Pima Medical Institute! It was encouraging and exciting to be surrounded by fellow students who all shared my passion. I appreciated the atmosphere created by our instructors and the hands-on experience. Unfortunately, I was in a rollover accident, was bedridden and had to miss a whole sequence of classes. It was difficult being away from Pima Medical and all my classmates, but my instructors were so supportive when I was able to return. However soon after, COVID hit and we were forced to go remote. I was so discouraged, but I was able to begin shadowing at my future externship site while taking online classes and upon graduation they offered me a position.
I passed my VTNE exam in October of 2020 to become a certified VT. I am currently the second lead tech and am in charge of employee training and inventory; having assisted in establishing new protocols and the purchase of updated equipment. I attend every continuing education event I can get my hands on and I love learning. Veterinary medicine can take me anywhere and I am up for the challenge. Down the road I can even see myself as an instructor in a VT program.
I am grateful for Pima Medical and my instructors who provided me with an education that has led to my continued success and allowed my dreams to become reality.
|
My daughter is a neonatal nurse and an associate director at Banner Hospital. I've always said I wanted to be just like her when I grew up!
I was just 16 years old when I had my daughter and spent the next 32 years working in the grocery industry while raising my kids. It wasn't until last year when my sister passed away that I experienced firsthand just how short life can be. I decided to take that tragedy and do something positive with it. My sister had always told me I could do anything and was smarter than I thought, so I decided to be like my daughter and obtain a career in the medical field.
My daughter had originally attended Pima Medical Institute for her CNA, so I boldly made the call and set up an appointment. Coming in as a 56-year-old mother who hadn't had any education since getting my GED in 1989, was intimidating. But from the person who welcomed me in the lobby, to the admissions advisor and then my instructors - everyone was kind and encouraging. I loved my instructors and I learned so much from them. It was a wonderful experience and it empowered me. I feel like I can do anything!
I thought it would be fun to work with babies and young parents, so I pursued and obtained a position working in the neonatal intensive care unit at Banner Health. My plan is to absorb as much information as I can and then continue my education. This is such an open field with so many opportunities.
I'm so thankful for my new career and everyone at Pima Medical. You can do anything you set your mind to and you're never too old to take the risk to start over!
|
I was a dental assistant for 13 years. I loved helping people, but I wanted to do more so I decided to pursue nursing. A friend had attended Pima Medical's Practical Nursing (PN) program and I found I would be able to start the program quickly, so I enrolled.
It was a tough program, but I had great instructors. They all had experience and shared their practical knowledge. They didn't talk down to us, but almost treated us as peers. I was like a sponge and wanted to learn all I could to be fully prepared as a nurse. The career services department connected me with ABQ Heights Healthcare and Rehab Center and they were able to see my work ethic through my clinicals and hired me. I am currently an LPN and in the process of going for my RN.
I started work right at the beginning of the pandemic. It was extreme! It was stressful working with patients who couldn't breathe, seeing many codes, having a lack of supplies and dealing with frustrated family members. It was emotionally very difficult! But surviving all that, showed me that nursing really was where I wanted to be. It can be hard to invest in two-four years of RN education if you're unsure it's for you. I recommend the PN program all the time. It's only one year of your life!
Pima Medical gave me confidence and the skills I needed to be successful. I stay close to my former instructors. They are great resources and are still there for me if I have questions. I love nursing!
|
After my children's father and I split, I was faced with the choice of doing nothing or pursuing my dreams. I chose the latter. Warren Village, a transitional housing for single moms, became my new home. I told my family advocate there that I was passionate about animals and wanted a career in veterinary. They helped me formulate a plan, including the Veterinary Assistant (VA) program at Pima Medical Institute. I began the VA program during the pandemic, juggling my studies with the chaos of three kids at home, but I knew it was the perfect fit for me. It felt like family and the instructors were very understanding. Upon finishing, I knew I wanted more and enrolled in the Veterinary Technician (VT) program. I absolutely loved the hands-on clinicals; assisting in surgery or drawing blood from a horse was amazing! At my VT graduation I was shocked and proud to win the prestigious Richard Luebke Award.
During our VT program a graduate from the Bachelor of Science in Health Administration program (BSHCA) spoke to us. This mom said if she hadn't completed the bachelor's degree program, she wouldn't be able to take care of her kids like she can now. A light bulb went off and I felt like she was speaking to me. Six days after graduating with my VT associate degree, I started the online BSHCA program. I am enjoying working at Montclair Animal Clinic, my former externship site. Prior to schooling, I worked in retail management, so I would love to use my education and manage in an animal setting. I am also dreaming about getting my masters and someday opening an animal sanctuary.
I followed my passion and I did this for my kids. I have a new career and I will have gotten my certificate, associate and bachelor's in four years. Pima Medical was my beacon of hope, offering flexibility, understanding and a brighter future.
|
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.
|
After graduating from high school in Rio Rico, I moved to Tucson to attend a community college, but it just wasn't the right place for me. One of my friends had gone to Pima Medical Institute, and after checking out their Medical Assistant (MA) program, I thought-this is perfect! The program was fast, flexible, and had no wasted classes. Since there were options for morning, afternoon or evening classes, I was able to continue working while attending school. At just 19 years of age, I graduated with my certificate and started working in a "grown up job" while most of my friends were still in college. I knew I had made the right choice. I landed a job at Catalina Pediatrics where I worked as an MA for 13 years, eventually becoming the back-office manager.
Wanting more, I considered nursing, but a co-worker suggested I look into Respiratory Therapy (RT). When I found out Pima Medical had an RT program, I knew it was for me. The classes were challenging, but my instructors were supportive, and my classmates and I helped each other through the program. The biggest challenge I faced was during my ICU rotation, when COVID hit and we were sent home. After graduating, I saw a job opening at Banner Main as Program Manager for their Sleep Research Lab. I applied, and got the job! It was a tough first year learning the ins and outs of research, but now I love the responsibility and even the pressure.
If I hadn't gone back to school for RT, I wouldn't be where I am today, with a job I love. My advice? Whether you're 19 or 39, go to school. Pima Medical gave me opportunities I never imagined, and it can do the same for you!
|
After 25 years in restaurant management, I always knew I wanted to go back to school, but life kept getting in the way. In 2017, everything changed when I got very sick and ended up in the hospital for 10 days. One nurse, an older, highly skilled woman, was so inspiring that I thought, "If she can do this, so can I." Though I didn't want to be a nurse, I knew my management background could help me run a medical office. However, when I tried applying for receptionist jobs, I kept hearing the same thing-I needed medical experience.
That's when I decided to take a leap and enroll in Pima Medical Institute's Medical Assistant (MA) program. The nine-month program gave me the education I needed to get my foot in the door. It wasn't easy-after being out of school for 20 years, I had to relearn how to study and manage my time. But thanks to Pima Medical's support system and my fellow students, I got through it.
I landed my first job as an MA through my externship at Pima Heart. I soon enrolled in the online Health Care Administration (HCA) program, while moving up in my job and then continued into the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration (BSHCA) program. Upon completion, I applied to administrative positions and was humbled to have 15 interviews scheduled. After considering numerous job opportunities, I chose to join Banner Health as a Practice Manager, overseeing a staff of 20 (with eight providers and 40 residents).
Pima Medical provided the education I needed to excel in the medical field. My instructors were there for me every step of the way. If you're considering going back to school, just do it! Choose Pima Medical and you will get the support you need.
|
Back in 2005, I was working in Public Relations at National Jewish Health, the nation's #1 respiratory hospital, when I first discovered the field of Respiratory Therapy (RT). Fascinated by the work, I asked the Director of Respiratory who offered the best RT program. Without hesitation, he said, "Pima Medical Institute." My decision was made.
My time in the Respiratory Therapy program at Pima Medical was incredible. The hands-on training during clinical rotations left me feeling fully prepared to enter the field. In fact, I had two job offers before I even graduated. Pima Medical's commitment to student success is unmatched-they're truly invested in 100% job placement, and it shows. Over the years, I've precepted students from many schools, and Pima Medical graduates consistently stand out as being the most prepared.
Today, I work at Craig Hospital near Denver, Colorado, a leading acute rehabilitation center specializing in traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. I've built a new division within the department and now serve as the Respiratory Patient Education & Discharge Coordinator. My role involves training patients and their families to manage ventilators and tracheostomies at home, coordinating equipment and supplies, and often flying with patients across the country to ensure a smooth transition home.
In 2012, I was honored as Colorado Respiratory Therapist of the Year and in 2025, I received the National PHIL Award for Patient Advocacy.
I owe much of my success to Pima Medical Institute's exceptional program. To this day, I recommend it to anyone interested in Respiratory Care-it truly is the best!
|
