After 12 years as a dental assistant I knew there was more for me in the dental profession. When I heard PMI was offering a Dental Hygiene program, I jumped at the opportunity! I am a 35 year old parent of two boys and the thought of quitting my job to attend school was quite daunting, but I forged ahead and was committed. The Dental Hygiene program was an accelerated, challenging opportunity and despite the sweat, tears, countless study sessions, long nights of studying and many other sacrifices, I completed the program and became a Board Certified Registered Dental Hygienist!
I appreciated my education at PMI and was continually impressed by the knowledge and willingness of the instructors and administration to ensure my educational success. I was prepared in every way, from classroom, to clinical lab, to my job! After passing my boards, I had three job offers! Since graduation I have been employed in an amazing dental office doing what I love! I am even considering furthering my career goals by attending PMI for a bachelor's degree.
I am so grateful for everything PMI and my instructors have done for me. I was even given a once in a lifetime opportunity to practice my profession on a missionary trip to Africa provided by the CEO of PMI, Mr. Richard Luebke, Jr. PMI truly cares for their students and provides opportunities not available anywhere else. I would definitely recommend PMI to anyone seeking a way to achieve their career goals and make a better life!
|
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 came to Houston two years ago to take a position as Director of Social Services for a foster care agency. When I arrived I found out the agency was on probation with the state of Texas. It wasn't long before they closed their office and I was out of a job. I hold a bachelor's in Criminal Justice and a master's in Counseling Psychology, so I began looking for a job in my field of social service. After a year with no success, I thought ... What can I do? While in college I had a job as a phlebotomist. The problem was, my training was little more than a two weeks, bring in your family and friends and practice doing sticks. I knew if I received good training and became nationally certified, I could go anywhere and get a job. I never wanted to be without a job again. So, I researched, found PMI and signed up. My experience at PMI was excellent!
While on my externship I met a nurse practitioner who was ready to open a new clinic. I was hired part-time and quickly worked my way up to my current position as a fulltime office manager. I came in with a skill set as a phlebotomist, but my background in social services has been a real plus. If I see a need, I do it. I enjoy tying my counseling and medical skills together.
I'm thankful for my training at PMI. My instructor, Mrs. Tobin, was phenomenal! I was at a low point when I entered her program and she encouraged me to do my best and believed in me. She's a wonderful instructor and I'm thankful for my experience at Pima.
|
My parents helped me realize that it's never too late to go back to school and gain more knowledge any way you can. I had been working in home care but had a desire to do more in the medical field. I have several family members in the medical field and have relatives who had attended Pima Medical Institute and spoke highly of their reputation in the healthcare community. I chose their Medical Assistant program because I enjoy caring for people and I thought I might be good at the medical procedures.
My instructors were very helpful and I did my best to study and gain as much knowledge as I could while in the program. I really enjoyed my externship assignment at the New Mexico Cancer Center. I learned so much about cancer patient care and chemotherapy. I ended up being hired as a Medical Assistant at the Canoncito Health Center, which typically cares for the Native American population. I am part Navajo myself and I speak Navajo fluently, so I am able to translate for patients. It's a very helpful skill at the center. I enjoy my job because I get to see a wide variety of patients from pediatrics to geriatrics and my charge nurse and physician's assistant are always teaching me new things.
Eventually, I would really like to go back to school to become a nurse and I think I would enjoy a hospital setting. Thank you Pima Medical for giving me my start in the medical field.
|
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.
|
I discovered Pima Medical Institute through a friend who was in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) program. I had a bachelor's degree in biology (pre-med) and aspired to join the medical field, but I lacked direction. Inspired by my friend's passion, I researched, attended an open house and decided on a career in Sonography.
My journey as a student was challenging, yet fulfilling. Initially my application was rejected due to my limited patient care experience. I was devastated, but I reached out to my advisor at Pima Medical to see what I could do to make myself more competitive. They suggested completing the Phlebotomy program and working as a phlebotomy technician to obtain the direct patient care experience I lacked. I did just that earning a spot in the next DMS cohort and finishing my program as the valedictorian. Pima Medical's standout feature is its remarkable instructors and dedicated staff. They pushed me to excel and were always available. They went above and beyond to ensure I felt confident and prepared for my profession. I applied for my first job at a local hospital and within three days, I had interviewed and was formally offered a position. I passed my first board exam, I am preparing for additional registry examinations and I am aiming to be the best sonographer I can be.
To my former instructors, thank you for going out of your way to provide me with the best possible education and inspiring me to be the best every day. You have made a monumental impact on not only my career, but also my life.
|
While facing setbacks in my undergraduate BSPS (Bachelors in Science of Pharmaceutical Science) program due to grade issues, I decided to step away. My advisor from the University of Arizona (UA) suggested I apply to Pima Medical Institute's Pharmacy Technician program. From the moment I stepped into the program, I knew I was in the right place. I had wonderful instructors to help guide me on the path of reaching my goal. I enjoyed meeting new and different people, each with their own unique story. Probably the biggest obstacle I faced was the poor performance that was lingering from my time at UA and wanting to show that I wasn't the reason for not doing well there. I'm proud to say I cleared that hurdle and finished my program with a 4.0 GPA.
One of the most invaluable aspects of Pima Medical was the accessibility of instructors for one-on-one guidance and always knowing I could easily ask questions and get help. This bolstered my confidence during my externship, enabling me to be comfortable with my colleagues and have the confidence to ask questions. I was thrilled to receive a job offer from Banner University Medical Center Tucson. My time there as an extern showcased my capabilities, earning me a position as a Certified Pharmacy Technician.
I owe immense gratitude to my instructors Shaun, Sara and Grace for their unwavering support and dedication to my success. Pima Medical Institute is able to offer opportunities to those that believe they don't deserve it, when in reality they do!
|
After completing high school, I was looking for a temporary source of income that would pay enough to allow me to put myself through college. I had several family members who had attended various programs at Pima Medical Institute, so decided to enroll in their nine-month Pharmacy Technician program, figuring it might be a quick way to make more than the average college student.
The class schedules were ideal, allowing me to work while going to school. It was a strenuous curriculum but my instructor, a Doctor of Pharmacy with many years of experience, ensured his students became successful Pharmacy Technicians. He knew exactly what made a great technician and he prepared us well to become nationally recognized Certified Pharmacy Technicians.
I have spent the past 17 years as a Pharmacy Technician working in inpatient pharmacy performing sterile and chemotherapy compounding. I moved away from Arizona about seven years ago and I was hired at the VA Medical Center, where I was quickly promoted to Lead IV Trainer.
Recently, the Mayo Clinic in Mankato reached out to me and offered me a job as their Technician Supervisor with a focus in Sterile Compounding. The temporary job I thought would support further education became my career. I am very proud of my work as a Pharmacy Technician and I'm thankful for my Pima Medical instructor. As a result of being trained by him, I feel like my career has been really distinguished and for that I will always be grateful.
|
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 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!
|
Nineteen years ago, I took my first step toward a life-changing career by enrolling in the Medical Assistant (MA) program at Pima Medical Institute. I knew I wanted to work in healthcare, but I didn't realize how transformative this journey would be. During my time as an MA student, I became fascinated with Respiratory Therapy (RT), so I enrolled in Pima Medical's RT program. My instructors believed in me and pushed me beyond my limits. The administrative team was equally supportive, showing me that my education mattered to them as much as it did to me.
While still an RT student, I secured my first job at North Vista Hospital. After graduating, I joined University Medical Center (UMC) in Las Vegas. Both hospitals hired me after completing my clinical rotations. I worked my way up and built my career at UMC, eventually earning a management role. While there I continued my education, completing a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT) online program from Pima Medical and later a master's degree in Business.
After retiring, I returned to Pima Medical to give back. In April 2024, I became the Clinical Director of Education for the RT program and by October 2024, I became the RT Program Director. I am forever grateful to Pima Medical Institute for believing in me. This journey wouldn't have been possible without the incredible instructors and staff who stood by me every step of the way.
|
I knew since I was a child that I wanted to be in the medical field. When it came time for me to graduate from high school, I wasn't interested in a four-year college or university because I just wanted to jump right into the workforce as soon as possible and begin my career in the medical field. After explaining this to my gramma, she recommended Pima Medical Institute. We visited together and took a tour; I knew then that the nine-month Medical Assistant (MA) program was the best fit for me.
My experience as a student was amazing! The MA program is an accelerated program and while you're learning lots of information in a short time, the hands-on practice helps you apply your skills and prepares you for the profession. All the nerves, tears and anxiousness were so worth it. I was so well prepared for my six-week externship that I was offered a position as an MA upon completion. I am still employed there and I recently began going back to school to obtain my associates in Nursing with plans to continue on to get my bachelor's (BSN) degree.
I want to say thank you to every single one of my instructors. Pima Medical changed my life, and I will always be grateful for the education I received, the lifelong relationships I built with my instructors and classmates, and the lasting career it has given me.
|
