I always loved animals and it's been my goal to have a career working with them. I was so impressed when I took a tour at Pima Medical Institute, because there were animals everywhere. I chose this school because I knew their emphasis was going to be hands on versus just reading a book. Plus, their class schedule allowed me to continue to work and support myself while going to school.
Everyone at PMI knew all of us by name and if we ever had an issue, there was always someone willing to help and guide us. I felt knowledgeable and very prepared for every topic on the Veterinary Technician National Examination and I passed it on the first try!
I was hired immediately after graduation at the location of one of my externships and I really enjoy my job. I would like to thank everyone for all of their help and support. Down the road, I'd like to continue learning and possibly become a technologist
specializing in behavior issues. But for now, I'm just excited to work in my new career. Thanks PMI!
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After retiring from the military in 2007 and working ten years as a corrections officer in a supermax prison, I decided it was time for something new. In 2019, I used my military education benefits to enroll in Pima Medical Institute's Phlebotomy program (PHL). That led to Medical Assistant (MA), then Health Care Administration (HCA) and finally Veterinary Assistant (VTA). I also enrolled in Respiratory Therapy (RT) for a short time, but I realized it was not the right fit. In total, I completed four programs at Pima Medical.
The reason I kept coming back was simple: the people. There's a real sense of community here. When I finished my last program, I felt like something was missing. I applied for a position on campus, not expecting much, but the team saw potential in me and offered me a role in financial aid. At first, I thought I wasn't qualified. They told me they could teach the technical side, but what they really needed was someone who could connect with students. That gave me the confidence to accept the job.
I came here to learn, and I ended up staying to serve. Now I get to work with students every day, and I always try to check in with the ones who stand out. I let them know they're not alone, that someone here is rooting for them. It's not just about numbers or forms. It is about connection.
Math used to be something I wasn't crazy about, but now I use it every day and even enjoy it. Back when I started the Phlebotomy program, I would have laughed if you told me I would be in business attire, in an office, helping students plan their futures. This job changed my perspective. I come in each day not just to work, but to make a difference.
I tell my boss all the time: if it is not here, it is not anywhere. Pima Medical isn't just where I studied - It's where I belong.
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My story was not pretty prior to PMI and difficult circumstances left me with two small children to support. I had always been passionate about health care. When I found Pima Medical Institute, I realized that the phlebotomy program could be an affordable and manageable to purse my passion.
I'd been told my whole life that wasn't good enough or smart enough to amount to anything. While at PMI, my instructor encouraged and believed in me. My classmates became friends, and the school even supported me through their food pantry. I didn't feel judged, in fact for the first time in my life, I felt empowered. After just 3 months I was ready to begin my career in the medical field.
I got a job right away and was quickly promoted to coordinator. I continued my education, became a supervisor, and eventually moved up to management. For the last 9 years I've been the test management manager at Banner University Medical Center. I also am a substitute teacher in PMI's phlebotomy program at the East Valley campus. I remember what it's like to be a student, so I'm able to give advice and sometimes even help them find positions.
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I was a corrections officer for about 6 years, but I always knew it wouldn't be long term. After doing some research, I became interested in Respiratory Therapy and chose PMI's program because I could begin immediately. The program was very demanding, but my instructors were encouraging and my classmates were a huge support. I'd get off work at 7 am and have to be in class by 8 am. My classmates often helped me by poking me to keep me awake. After class I'd get an afternoon nap until my kids got home from school. Evenings were spent with my children and doing homework, and I would be back at work by 11 pm. It was a really tough schedule - but it was worth it! One of my instructors was Harry McAlpine, a pioneer in Respiratory Therapy, and I remember him sitting down with me, listening, and helping me manage my difficult situation.
Since graduating I've worked at a number of hospitals in the Tucson area, including over 12 years at Tucson Medical Center. In 2014, I was hired at Cornerstone Hospital as their Manager of Respiratory Therapy. I am so thankful for my PMI instructors. They took the time to get to know me and then give me what I needed; whether a push or a word of encouragement. I became who I am today and grew as a professional into a supervisory position because of them.
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When my mom encouraged me to check out Pima Medical Institute, I was unclear what I wanted my career path to be. But I have always loved animals, so once I heard about their Veterinary Assistant program, I knew it would be a fit.
My instructor was the best! He had experience in the field and he taught us practical tips beyond the program curriculum. My classes were small, my classmates and I helped each other, and I really appreciated the overall environment. The biggest challenge for me was managing my time so I could continue working, attending classes, and have time for family and studying. It's a fast paced program and it was certainly stressful at times, but it was totally worth it!
I was definitely nervous to begin my externship at an actual clinic, but they received me with open arms and gave me a lot of constructive advice and taught me different techniques. One thing that helped everyone was that I speak Spanish and it seemed every day there was someone who came into the clinic who only spoke Spanish. The veterinarian was very appreciative that I could help communicate with their clients, and when my clinical time was over they offered me a position.
It is fun working side by side with the veterinarian and staff and hearing their opinions. I enjoy caring for the animals and seeing them come back feeling better and growing. I just love my job!
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I was working as a licensed insurance agent when I decided to pursue my future and a new career. I had heard of occupational therapy and knew it was a profession where I would be able to give someone the gift of living their absolute best life as independently as possible. That is what I wanted to do. I researched and found Pima Medical Institute's two year Occupational Therapy Assistant program, toured the campus and applied that same day.
For nearly two years, I exhaustingly worked two jobs to afford my tuition, rent and other bills while going to school full time, and I may have shed a few tears on my flashcards when studying. However, my instructors, staff and classmates at Pima Medical were incredibly supportive and helpful towards my success and I did it!
By the time graduation came around, I had four job offers from networking and fieldwork sites. I accepted a position working at Encompass Health Rehab Hospital, working mainly with Theracare Pediatric Services.
We are a community of gifted individuals with hearts that believe the purpose of being in the medical field is to serve the greater good of humanity. I am so thankful for the opportunities Pima Medical provided to help me succeed and achieve my dreams. I am proud to be a graduate of Pima Medical Institute and my future goal is to open my own pediatric clinic.
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After high school I thought I might be interested in business and tried college classes. But after having a child and looking for a long-lasting, stable career, I decided to pursue the medical field and enrolled in the Medical Assistant program at Pima Medical Institute. What a different environment from my previous college experiences where I felt left on my own. Pima Medical's program is structured with clear expectations, an end date and the support you need. Everything you're learning is critical to your new career. My instructor was great and I am still in contact with several of my classmates (from 10 years ago).
I began my job with Healthcare Partners in medical records. , I didn't really enjoy it, but took the opportunity to grow within the clinic. Not long after transitioning to a Medical Assistant position, I realized I wanted to be in leadership. I enrolled in Pima Medical's online Healthcare Administration (HCA) program and after completing my associate degree, I became a supervisor. After becoming a practice manager, I knew I wanted more so I earned my bachelor's degree in HCA. The online programs at Pima Medical are challenging, but also manageable. The instructors are supportive and understand you have a life and a job. I was able to apply what I was learning in the program while managing both an Urgent Care and a Medicare Advantage Clinic.
Currently, I am employed with Optum United Healthcare in a corporate leadership position where I am managing a team of 19 people. I love my job! My boss is supportive, encouraging my growth and education, so I have enrolled in the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) program. I am utilizing the tools I am learning in my classes to help build leaders within my organization. Having degrees in healthcare, particularly a master's degree, is the future of healthcare.
I'm grateful I could continue my education at Pima Medical in short chunks; taking time off in between to rest and utilize what I'd learned. Making time for that first program can be hard, but education always pays off. Your future is worth it!
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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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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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I have always had an interest in the medical field, but had no idea where to begin. My brother went to Pima Medical Institute for the Veterinary Technician program, which led me to look into the school. After my first tour, I knew it was the place for me and I enrolled in the Medical Assistant (MA) program.
My student experience was amazing! I had fantastic instructors and got so much hands-on experience in such a short amount of time. At first, it was difficult to balance full-time school while working, but I loved what I was learning so much that putting in the work was something I was more than willing to do. I loved getting to practice my hands-on skills with my classmates. Doing things like injections and blood draws on real people truly prepares you for real patients.
I graduated from Pima Medical with a 4.0 GPA, and as soon as I started to apply for jobs, the offers were rolling in! I ultimately chose to work at University of Washington Medical Center because it seemed like the best opportunity for me, and it definitely has been. Since graduating, I have been working at UW for the last year. I have learned so much and have never been more confident in a job.
Getting my education at Pima Medical Institute was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made. It prepared me so much for my future and made stepping into a new role a piece of cake. I would highly recommend Pima Medical to others seeking to change their lives.
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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.
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When I got braces in high school, I was fascinated by how something so simple could transform a person's smile-and their confidence. That experience sparked my interest in the dental field, and after researching options, I found Pima Medical Institute's Dental Assistant (DA) program. I enrolled right after high school and jumped into the program.
My instructors were incredible! I never considered myself a standout student, but the hands-on learning style was perfect for me. I learned so much, and when it came time for my externship, it felt like a breeze because I was so prepared. They even offered me a job as soon as I finished, and I worked there happily until I moved out of state.
Since graduating in 2011, I've worked in every part of a dental office-from assisting to managing the front desk to being an office manager. Today, I'm a mom of two fast-growing kids, and I want more flexibility to be with them, so I'm going back to school for billing and coding. This will allow me to continue working in the dental field from home.
I love the dental field because I get to make a difference-helping patients find relief from pain or transforming their smiles - and I'm excited about the next chapter in my dental career. Pima Medical is an amazing place with caring instructors and I would choose it all over again. It's changed my life.
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