PMI helped me obtain my career in the medical field. A friend of mine was enrolled in their Medical Assistant program and always shared how much she enjoyed going to school. I started to look into the other programs they had to offer and decided on the Pharmacy Technician program. I wasn't sure, but since it was only a nine month course I wasn't losing much time if it wasn't a fit. I ended up loving the program and couldn't wait to start working in the field. My instructor was great and some of my classmates have become my lifelong friends.
My externship site gave me the hands on experience I needed and Career Services sent me job leads and helping me find a position. My goal was to work in the hospital setting, so I was very excited when I received a job at University of Colorado Hospital (UCH). I started as a float until I learned all the different positions. Then I began working in the Operating Room (OR) pharmacy where I would make the medications and bring them to the anesthesiologists, nurses, and doctors while they were in surgery. After about a year of working in the OR, I transferred back to the central pharmacy and became a PYXIS technician, refilling the medications in the PYXIS machines on the units for the nurses. After three years, I was promoted to Pharmacy Compliance Officer. Now, I make sure UCH is compliant with the State Board of Pharmacy (SBOP) and USP 797. I am currently enrolled in school to pursue my bachelors in business and hope to continue moving up within the company at UCH.
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I grew up in an unsupportive environment, constantly reminded of my limitations. After dabbling in community college and an unfinished nursing program, I found myself divorced with two young children, wondering what I could do to provide for my family. That's when I discovered Pima Medical Institute and enrolled in the Medical Secretary program. Within three months, I graduated and landed a job in the medical field, giving me the stability I desperately needed. After moving to Las Vegas, I continued to grow my career-first as an office manager and later doing billing. One day, I learned that Pima Medical was launching a Respiratory Therapy program. I jumped at the chance to enroll, excited to take my career to the next level.
Balancing school, work, and motherhood was tough. My kids and I would do homework together, and I showed them it's never too late to change your path. After graduating, I was hired at Summerlin Hospital, where I worked for 14 years. Watching the devastation in New York, when the pandemic hit in 2020, I knew I had to step up and help. I was hired as a traveler at New York Presbyterian Cornell, one of the top hospitals in the country. It was intense-over 230 patients on ventilators when I arrived -but I learned and grew through it all. While on the frontlines, I was also pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy through Pima Medical. I faced moments of doubt, but with the support of my program director, I pushed through. My son and I graduated with our bachelor's degrees in the same year-a moment of immense pride for my family.
I now work for the Nevada Donor Network, a new and upcoming field for RT's, turning tragedy into hope through organ donation. I feel a deep sense of purpose, knowing that I help give families a second chance. Thanks to Pima Medical, I've built a career that I love, and I'll never stop learning or growing.
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I was a golf pro for 10 years; a member of the PGA of America here in Vegas. When our first daughter was born I really didn't want to put her in daycare, so I started a golf business out of my home. Then the economy hit and my business went under. My wife suggested I go back to school but I just felt too old. I said, "By the time I graduate, I'll be 45!" In response my 12 year old daughter said, "Aren't you going to be 45 anyway?" So, I went back to school.
When I looked at Pima Medical Institute's accelerated 18 month Physical Therapist Assistant program, I knew it was for me. During my whole tenure at Pima my days consisted of getting up at 6 am, dropping my kids off at 7:30 am, come home and study or sleep for a few hours, go to classes from 1-5 pm, then work from 6 pm to midnight. Then I would do it all over again. I loved learning and going to school. The instructors were extremely knowledgeable and we definitely felt prepared.
I enjoy my job and I'm thankful and thrilled to be in my position. I'd highly recommend PMI's PTA program to others; both older second career individuals and young people. If someone doesn't have 6 years to give to become a physical therapist, this is a great way to go. You can make a good living and make a great impact on the community.
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I was a sushi chef for about ten years, but I wanted to get back into the business of helping others. I did my research on PMI, liked the idea of a two year program, and decided a change of career was long overdue. I had a very positive experience as a student. Although it wasn't easy, the teachers were helpful, knowledgeable, and supportive of me. The didactic portion of the program required many hours of studying and plenty of sacrifices. The clinical portion was where I felt I was able to shine and gain real-life experiences. I even received an Employee of the Month Award at my first clinical rotation.
I had two per diem student-tech jobs while I was still a PMI student. The hard work paid off and I graduated with honors. I'm currently a full-time x-ray tech, I'm cross-training into CT, and I am a Radiography instructor at PMI. I really enjoy teaching and passing on knowledge and experience to my students. I feel that the Radiography program has grown and, with the help of the faculty and directors, we are putting out some of the most competent, ethical, and professional students to ever wear a PMI uniform.
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Back in 2001 I enrolled in Pima Medical Institute's Medical Assistant Program. I was actually interested in nursing, but I had a young child and I just didn't have time to be on a waiting list. I enjoyed the program and ended up working as a Medical Assistant for 10 years until I felt like I had hit that glass ceiling and I couldn't grow any more.
I called PMI to see if they had a next step for me. When I learned about their online Health Care Administration associate's degree program, I got really excited! It was challenging, but I was motivated. My kids were a little older and they understood our life would change for a time while I was working and going to school, so we made it a family affair and we all studied together each night. My classes were really beneficial. They prepared me for leadership and management; skills I need for my current position. Our instructors made the classes practical. For example, we would have class discussions on how to handle patients who were upset. When I finished the program I realized I wanted to keep going, so I continued on and completed PMI's Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration. I am currently employed at Westmed Family Healthcare as their Clinical Supervisor. I would encourage other MAs to continue their education. Combining my years of experience with the online degrees from PMI has opened more doors for me in the healthcare field.
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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 2016, I began working for Pima Medical Institute as a Student Finance Officer. When I heard about their Health Care Administration program, I knew it was for me. I had a fulltime family and a fulltime job, so the online program was a perfect fit.
It was a little worrisome as I hadn't been to school in quite a while and I was afraid I would embarrass myself. Plus, I had never taken online classes before. It wasn't easy, there were late nights and I shed a few tears; but my instructors and family were very supportive. One thing I really appreciated is they helped us learn how to write emails in a professional way, no one had ever taught me that. I write emails all day long and I'm so grateful for my education. I feel so much more confident in my skills. My management class increased my confidence and, in fact, I recently applied for a coordinator position. I would never have felt comfortable pursuing a new position without this program.
My educational experience at Pima Medical has had quite the trickle down effect on my family. My oldest daughter completed the Medical Assistant program, my youngest daughter graduated from the Veterinary Assistant program, and her boyfriend is enrolled in the Radiography program. My husband's niece graduated from the Veterinary Assistant program, her boyfriend completed the Dental Assistant program and his other niece is considering enrolling in the HCA program. I have been able to help so many family members with a new career!
I love Pima Medical so much and this program gave me so many new skills. I am considering continuing in the bachelor's degree program.
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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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After earning a bachelor's degree in cultural anthropology, I struggled to find a job and ended up in finance. When COVID hit, my new job offer was rescinded and I was forced to take a job at a grocery store bakery, far from my career goals. I kept hearing advertisements for Pima Medical Institute which piqued my interest in the medical field. This led me to enroll in their three-month Phlebotomy program, allowing me to work and study simultaneously with minimal school commitment. It was a way to dip-my-toe into the water of the medical field.
The Phlebotomy program was a turning point in my life. Small classes, hands-on experience, and an excellent instructor, Miss Denise, made a significant impact. I soon secured a position at Chandler Regional Hospital, where I interacted with various departments and realized my passion for patient care. Nursing stood out as the most versatile and impactful role, prompting me to pursue a nursing degree at the institute I trusted and I enrolled at Pima Medical's Mesa Campus. The Nursing program was challenging and intense, pushing me to grow and become accountable for patient care. Through diverse clinical experiences, I gravitated towards ER and ICU settings. I've recently accepted a position at OBS Banner Dessert, aiming to transfer to the ICU and eventually join the trauma team.
I am immensely grateful for my education at Pima Medical. The Phlebotomy program provided a crucial foundation, giving me the framework I needed for a career in the medical field. I invited Miss Denise to my nursing pinning ceremony and my dad told her COVID had been difficult for me and she had saved my life. He was right, Pima Medical Institute truly changed my life.
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My family always told me I would thrive in the veterinary field, but I didn't believe in myself. I was 24, working and intermittently taking general education classes at the community college or university with no clear direction. Everything changed when I visited Pima Medical Institute and enrolled in the Veterinary Assistant (VA) and Veterinary Technician (VT) programs. These programs ignited my passion for the veterinary field, and I was finally on a career path I loved.
The instructors at Pima Medical were incredible, providing both education and valuable connections in the veterinary field. While attending the VT program, I balanced two full-time jobs in the industry, applying my classroom learning to real-world situations. This hands-on experience was invaluable. My instructors were always available and understanding of my very demanding schedule, even making sure I had snacks when I hadn't taken time to eat.
After graduation, I spent six years at a fast-paced ER. Today, I am the Hospital Administrator at Pima Pet Clinic where I am able to utilize both my technical skills and administrative expertise. Additionally, I serve in the United States Army Reserves in a Veterinary Detachment, training medical personnel on K9 emergency assessments. Utilizing a remote-controlled robotic dog, I create scenarios (increased heart rate, insinuating pain, blood flow sensors, stomach inflation, even amputations) in order to practice real-time medical emergencies.
The mix of knowledge and experience I gained at Pima Medical has been instrumental in my career and my ability to teach. Participating in these training exercises has been one of the most fulfilling experiences in my life. The connections and the education I received at Pima Medical have truly transformed my life.
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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.
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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!
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