I am a Medical Assistant at Children's Hospital of Colorado where I work in the pulmonary department, and I love my job! Believe it or not, I wake up every day excited to come to work. I can't wait to see the families and kids.
Way before PMI, I was trained in the animal science field, and later my husband and I ran an HOA management company for a number of years. Unexpectedly, two family members became very ill, and walking through this very difficult experience led me to desire a career in the medical field.
After finding Pima Medical Institute, I never hesitated. I thought of it one day, signed up the next, and started the Medical Assistant program a month later. It was not only the right timing, it was the right place, and it has been an amazing journey!
I had a great student experience at Pima, and the instructors were amazing. They cared about us and were available anytime any of us needed anything. To be honest, they actually became more like friends than teachers. My current job is a perfect fit for me, and I'm so grateful for my training at PMI!
|
I was a very young mom while working at Ross Dress for Less, and that experience really pushed me to think about my future. I knew I wanted to build a better life-not just for myself, but especially for my daughter. I've always been drawn to healthcare, but I had to be realistic; going to school full-time just wasn't an option. I researched programs that would allow me to balance both responsibilities, and that's when I came across Pima Medical Institute's Seattle Campus. It stood out because of its flexibility and focus on hands-on training.
My experience as a student was really positive. The biggest challenges I faced weren't with the school itself, but with balancing everything in my personal life. Being a full-time mom while also working part-time and going to school wasn't easy. One thing I really appreciated was the support from the teachers. They were always willing to help, and it didn't feel like I was going through the program alone. I felt like they genuinely cared about my success, and the friends I made during the program have become lifelong supportive friends!
After graduating in 2010, I stayed consistent and patient in my job search and found my first roles with a pediatrician and at HealthPoint Community Clinic. Over the years, I've gained leadership experience in pediatrics, cardiology, urgent care, primary care and internal medicine.
Right now, I'm continuing my education and working toward my bachelor's degree in Healthcare Informatics. I want to combine my clinical experience with informatics to make a broader impact on the systems and technology that support healthcare. If you're thinking about Pima Medical Institute, go tour it-you won't be disappointed!
|
My education at Pima Medical Institute has been invaluable! I chose to come to Pima Medical because I was at a standstill in my previous career. I was drawn to the technical side of the medical field and consequently chose their Radiography program.
My experience as a student was amazing. It was a challenging road, but worth every step. The excellent education and the challenges I faced in the classes and in clinicals made me grow as a person and as a medical professional. I felt very prepared to begin my career after my top notch education and clinical experience. In fact, I received a job offer before I had even graduated from the last clinical site where I was placed by Pima Medical. I have been working in CT (Computed Tomography or CAT Scan) at Presbyterian Hospital. I have continued my education online in CT and will be taking my CT registry within 10 months of graduating from Pima Medical with my X-ray license.
I am full of gratitude for my instructors. My experience at Pima Medical would not have been the same without them. They taught me to be a professional and to be helpful as a student, and that has helped me as I have begun my career. Pima Medical was the best choice I have ever made and I recommend them to anyone and everyone who wants to create a better future for themselves.
|
I had some major setbacks while I was a student at Pima Medical Institute. In the middle of my program we lost our condo and two cars due to flooding from Hurricane Harvey. About the only things we saved from high water were my textbooks which I'd left on a high table. My classmates, instructors and administrators rallied around and helped me during this time. In fact, they provided enough money for a down payment on my car. The support was amazing! Also, right before my finals I lost my father to cancer. I was left emotionally drained but more determined than ever to finish my program.
The Dental Hygiene program was a very challenging and an accelerated program, but a great experience! Pima Medical prepares you and gives you the tools to move into the real world of your occupation. I had been interning at a small dental office and after graduation the dentist offered me an opportunity to begin building my customer base. After 4 months, I had worked up to full-time and was able to create and implement my own set of procedures. While at Pima Medical, I mentored a student in the class behind me and I was able to bring her on at my clinic. I now have a full schedule and she is building her customer base.
Although I had some major setbacks while at Pima Medical, I bit my lip and soldiered on. I'm grateful for the support of my instructors and others at Pima Medical. I am proud of my success and I even had a perfect score on my boards!
|
Ever since kindergarten I always received extra help with school because of my vision issues. I struggled with not feeling smart enough and I never applied myself because I was afraid of failing. My dad had heard good things about Pima Medical Institute, so after high school he really encouraged me to check out their programs. After meeting with an advisor and watching a YouTube video of one of Pima Medical's graduates talking about his experiences, I decided to choose their Radiography program.
I fell in love with my teachers, got a 4.0 GPA and graduated with honors! Kristen, my instructor, helped me with my test anxiety, was always available for my questions no matter what time of day, and was a huge part of my success at Pima Medical. But, I worked hard and was dedicated to getting good grades and would often come in hours early just to study and prepare for class. My classmates were amazing, and, in fact, I met one of my best friends through this program.
My instructors chose a good first clinical site for me which provided lots of one-on-one training and helped build my confidence. My last clinical experience was at Banner University Medical Center, a level one trauma hospital, where I just recently landed my dream job!
I am 20 years old and thanks to all my hard work, the excellent program and the dedicated staff at Pima Medical Institute, I am proud to say I have set myself up for success with a great job in the medical field!
|
I was injured while playing soccer in high school and my physical therapist said to me, "I think you'd be a really good physical therapist!" I tucked that away until I was at Texas State University heading toward becoming a nurse when I realized it just wasn't for me. I switched to Exercise Sports Science with a pre-physical therapy emphasis. After graduation, the doctorate physical therapy programs were extremely competitive and I just didn't have the confidence to apply - still a regret. Instead, I reviewed my options and began searching for a Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program and found Pima Medical Institute.
It was a challenging, accelerated 18-month program, but my instructors were super motivating. Although they were hard on us, they gave us all the tools needed to be the best professional clinicians we could be. I was awarded the most "outstanding student" at graduation and offered a job at each of my clinical rotations. I began my therapist journey as a pediatric PTA until I found the place I really loved; working in sports medicine and rehabilitation. During my five plus years in orthopedics, I worked with multiple students as a clinical instructor. This drew my passion for education and I began my journey as a clinical director and instructor back at the same PTA program I'd attended. I tell my students I've been down their same path and I am going to give them everything they need to be a success in their clinical experience. I remind them that I am invested in their success because not only is Pima Medical's reputation on the line, so is mine as a graduate of this program.
Pima Medical provided what I needed to become a great therapist and for that I am thankful. I believe I've found my place in education and I am hoping to further my education through the master's degree program in the future.
|
After obtaining a degree in architecture, I found my heart just wasn't in that career choice. I have a love for animals, and spent time volunteering as a kennel assistant. As I began to take on more responsibilities, my mentor, Dr. Laura Halsey, recommended I go to Pima Medical Institute to become a licensed Veterinary Technician.
I had an excellent experience as a student. The teaching was memorable and relevant and we received vital hands-on experience. I really appreciated my instructor, Diane O'Brien, RVT. She knew I wasn't the standard student who would be happy in general medicine and she pushed me towards specialty areas, especially surgery. I had no idea that this would turn out to be my passion. I am currently working towards my Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in anesthesia, but I would have continued to fear anesthesia had she not pushed me when she did.
After graduation, I began working as an Anesthesia Technician at Veterinary Specialty Hospital in San Diego, which is where I did my externship. I appreciated and learned from some extremely experienced and knowledgeable surgeons and techs while there. I recently accepted a position with MedVet Chicago where they operate a full anesthesia department with three anesthesiologists. My hope within the next two years is to complete and obtain the very prestigious title of Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in anesthesiology.
A huge thanks to all of my instructors! I use the techniques they taught me all the time - even the things I didn't think I'd need to know. I recommend Pima Medical's program to others. It's well structured, yet flexible, with lots of great hands-on training.
|
As a proud Pima Medical Institute BSRT graduate, my journey from an associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy (RT), to a bachelor's degree, to achieving my dream job as a Critical Care Transport Respiratory Therapist at Children's Mercy has been nothing short of remarkable. While in school for my associate's at Concorde College, they highly encouraged us to continue our education and recommended Pima Medical's online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT). I knew a bachelor's would increase my salary and would also be helpful for future supervisory or management positions. The flexibility of online classes made it manageable for me to work full-time at Salem Health, a level II trauma center with a level III NICU, while pursuing my degree.
My dream of working in medical transport began at age 17, when I was a volunteer patient for the local fire department and experienced being flighted out of our neighborhood. After years of experience as an RT, I landed my dream job. As a Critical Care Transport RT, I participate in various types of transports, from helicopters and fixed wing, to jets and ground transportation, proving support to hospitals nationwide. Children's Mercy in Kansas City is one of the busiest transport teams, covering a wide range of patients including neonates, pediatrics, maternal and fetal cases. Working with limited resources challenges me to think on my feet and be creative with patient care. The transport team, comprised of brilliant minds, requires continuous education, certifications, and simulations to improve patient care. During my downtime, I enjoy visiting former patients and their families and witnessing their progress.
I love to do PR at community events where I hope to inspire young girls to pursue a fulfilling career in healthcare. I'm appreciative for the role Pima Medical played in shaping my success and making my dream job a reality.
|
When I decided to become a radiologic technologist, Pima Medical Institute's Radiography (RAD) program stood out to me. Unlike community college, I could start right away, and that was a big draw. The program was challenging, but the friendships I formed with my classmates kept me motivated and accountable. I really enjoyed my instructors, who provided both emotional and professional support.
The diversity of my clinical rotations was something I truly appreciated. I had the chance to practice my skills in a variety of settings, from a rural hospital to an orthopedic clinic, a large hospital, and even special procedure rotations. These experiences not only helped me decide which areas of radiography I enjoyed most but also pushed me out of my comfort zone, honing my skill set.
My first job was in urgent care, where I was the only tech on site. This role was invaluable for my growth. I had to rely on my education and critical thinking skills to obtain the best images possible. After years of working in different disciplines, I discovered my passion in Interventional Radiology and the Cath Lab. I became the lead tech in a Neuro Endovascular Lab, a role that eventually led me to join Rapid Medical Inc. as a Clinical Specialist. This position has been one of the best things to happen in my career, allowing me to travel, expand my knowledge, and contribute to patient care in a new way.
I'm incredibly grateful to Pima Medical Institute for their RAD program and the online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS) program. Both provided a strong foundation that has allowed my career to flourish.
|
After 12 years working primarily as a public health nurse at a Federally Qualified Health Center (BQHC) serving medically underserved populations, I became a supervisor at the Florida Department of Health. It was then that I realized that I needed to obtain my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) to remain competitive in the job market. When I changed jobs, my new employer offered a deal I couldn't pass up; a FREE RN to BSN program, with the only contingency being that I remain with them 12 months after my degree attainment.
I was initially accepted at a much larger and well-known university for an online Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, but the communication between myself and their recruiters left a lot to be desired, and as an older student who had never taken online classes, it spooked me. I searched and found Pima Medical Institute's online BSN program. I applied and was immediately welcomed by a veritable squad of people helping ease my fears and walk me through a new-to-me online educational experience. The director even called me personally to ensure the program fit my needs for maximum success. I graduated with a 3.9 GPA this past May, and I couldn't praise my professors or fellow students more! I had access to kind and
helpful staff even at odd hours, and it has helped me become so much more confident in my current practice.
My positive educational experience at Pima Medical has me seriously considering the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) online program. This is something that was never on my radar before and I know I would only want to tackle this goal with Pima Medical Institute.
|
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!
|
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!
|
