I was a stay-at-home mom with four children under the age of five. I saw a commercial for Pima Medical Institute and decided to pursue my dream of a career in the medical field. From my first day I felt welcomed, my classmates were friendly, the course load was manageable and I realized this is what I was meant to do. Life was challenging as I was working full time at night to pay the bills, catching a few hours of sleep, and then going to school and caring for my kids during the day.
And then the pandemic hit. I lost my job. Our landlord sold the trailer we were living in and my family was forced out of our home. My husband and I and our little ones ages 5, 3, 2 and 1 slept in our van until we were able to move into an extended stay. It was rough! I got a job at the hotel where we were staying and began taking my classes virtually. It was difficult, but we were eventually able to move into our own apartment. Then I needed to give up my job to start my full-time externship and the bills started piling up. We barely had money for diapers. There was one day that it all felt overwhelming and I wanted to quit. I couldn't see the long term and I was worried we might be homeless again. I called my mom and she reminded me that I was almost finished and encouraged me to continue. So I didn't quit!
This has been the hardest year of my life! But recently, I was offered a job at Arizona Community Physicians and I am so excited to be doing a job I love. I set an example for my kids and my mom is so proud of me. I am grateful for Pima Medical. So many people there cared about me and helped me complete this journey. Thank you Pima Medical for jump starting my career in the medical field.
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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!
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I originally wanted to be a nurse. But when I finished my prerequisites, I found there was a three year wait at the school I was planning to attend. Rather than sit and wait, I decided to enlist in the US Air Force where I served as a medic for four years. By the time I got out of the military I'd gotten married, had a child and decided not to enter a nursing program like I'd planned. I enjoyed medicine but had always had a passion for animals. So, I decided to blend my medical experience with my love for animals.
After researching schools, I chose Pima Medical Institute's Veterinary Technician program because of all the hands on experience they provide for their students. Plus, their lab facility was fantastic! I had a great experience as a student. Every instructor was extremely knowledgeable in their area and they all did an excellent job preparing us for our national boards. Everyone at the school seemed to be attentive to our needs. For example, while I was a student I had a death in the family and had to travel to another state during a critical time in our sequence. I spoke with an administrator who was very accommodating, enabling me to work out a special schedule when I returned. I've had a great experience at the externship clinic and I am excited about what the future holds for me in veterinary medicine. Thanks PMI!
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My birth happened earlier than expected and, as a result, I spent time on a ventilator and have had lung problems all my life. Because of all the time spent around the healthcare profession, I decided to make it my career. I was looking into another four year respiratory program, but realized that although PMI might cost more upfront, I'd make more money by getting a job in just two years. To me, it was certainly worth it, so I signed up for PMI's Respiratory Therapy program.
I had a great experience as a student. My instructor's cared about the student's needs and took the extra time to help us and get to know us on a personal level. After graduation, I knew I wanted to advance my career and after some research, I realized PMI's online bachelor program was, again, the best option for me. It was a perfect fit and was an easy transition from my associate's to my bachelor's program. Currently, I am working as an instructor at PMI. I work at a hospital part-time and I'm able to take my experiences and help give my student's the practical understanding they need.
I'm planning to continue my education and hope to pursue a master's degree and possibly move into management in the future. Pima has been a very positive experience for me and has created limitless opportunities.
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My father is the Respiratory Therapy program director at PMI's Las Vegas campus and I heard about the program through him. After completing my application, I was awarded the Founder's Scholarship and was able to complete my BSRT all online while working full-time. My father always told me, "You can never be too smart!" so I didn't stop with my bachelor's.
I have recently completed my master's degree in Bioethics, with a concentration in end of life issues. I completed the program and was awarded my degree from The Alden March Bioethics Institute (AMBI) of Albany Medical College. Albany Medical College is one of America's oldest medical colleges, established in 1839 by Alden March. I was able to transfer all my credits from my undergraduate programs at Pima Medical Institute and The State University of New York. Getting my master's has been a great accomplishment for me! I am proud to be a PMI graduate and thankful for the generosity of the Luebke family. The BSRT I attained through PMI was truly the springboard for my graduation from Albany Medical College with my graduate degree.
My father shares my story with his students. It provides inspiration, clarity and proof of what students can do with a degree from the Pima Medical Institute RT program! Thanks PMI ... from both of us!
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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!
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I got out of the military as a gunner's mate and, since there weren't really any jobs hiring for an ex-military ammunitions and weapons expert, I started looking for a school with an accelerated program to provide a new career. I found Pima Medical Institute's Radiography (RAD) program, and while on a waiting list, I enrolled in their Pharmacy Technician program. It really helped get me back into the swing of school after being out so long and the day I finished, I was able to start the RAD program. The accelerated pace of the program was tough and I spent many sleepless nights studying to keep up. However, no matter the struggle, it was worth it!
Pima Medical provides the best preparation for your profession and you don't waste time or money for unnecessary courses that don't benefit your field. Plus, they have the best clinical sites available. I felt prepared to work at any facility and in multiple modalities. I moved to Washington the week I finished my program to join my husband back from his deployment and I found a job near his station at Whidbey Health Hospital.
After two years, I enrolled and recently completed Pima Medical's online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences program. I am preparing to take my Mammography boards and then plan to begin classes and on the job training for Computed Tomography.
I regularly recommend Pima Medical to other students. I received a great education and the instructors were always helpful and available.
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Growing up I'd always had my heart set on healthcare and my dream was to become a nurse. Despite being a good student initially, family issues led me to drop out of high school. I eventually got my GED and completed a nursing assistant program through Job Corps. Life threw more challenges my way, including a young marriage, poor partner choice and raising five children as a single mother.
After seeing advertisements for Pima Medical Institute, I was drawn to enroll in the Medical Assistant (MA) evening program. Balancing work, school and motherhood was tough, but I persevered for nine months. I began my new career in urgent care and later pediatrics, where I've been ever since. After a few years, Pima Medical reached out encouraging me to pursue an online Health Care Administration (HCA) associate degree. This degree opened more career doors for me. Today, I am a Lead Medical Assistant at Phoenix Children's Hospital, working with the Homeless Youth Outreach Department. I wear many hats, including clinical lead, Spanish interpreter and vaccine coordinator. Recently, I enrolled in an accelerated nursing bachelor's program at Grand Canyon University, transferring many Pima Medical credits and moving closer to my dream of becoming a nurse.
Pima Medial provided the foundation for my success. And even today, I always accept their student externs. The difference in skill between their students and others is noticeable. Returning to school as a single mom with five kids was challenging, but it was worth it. Many feel stuck in minimum wage jobs, but education can change that. Though it's tough initially, the long-term benefits include better job opportunities and more time with family. My journey was hard, but Pima Medical Institute was the key to my success. With determination and effort, you can achieve your dreams too.
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My mom had been a nurse in the Philippines, but after moving to the US she cared for us and began working as a phlebotomist. This influenced my decision to go into the medical field after high school. On a whim one day, I stopped by Pima Medical Institute and ended up enrolling in the three-month Phlebotomy program which started two weeks later. It was fast paced and very different from high school as students were all ages and yet we were all looking for a change or a new career. Even though our time together was short, it felt like family. My first job was with a blood donation company and after moving to eastern Washington, I worked at a hospital. This gave me a variety of experiences and built my confidence and I later transitioned into dialysis.
I knew I eventually wanted to become a Medical Assistant (MA) and even though Pima Medical was a long commute, I had confidence in them so I enrolled in the MA program. I was pregnant, worked full time and had a long commute each day, but I did it! I feel like Pima Medical helped shape me into a resilient person. After graduation I worked at a hospital and a few other sites as an MA. But it wasn't long before I began to envision myself in administration, so I chose to complete the Health Care Administration online associate degree. That program gave me so much confidence and I loved it.
After graduating, I saw an opening for a Career Services Advisor at Pima Medical, applied, and got the job. Now, I get to guide students and share my journey with them. Watching them grow reminds me of my own transformation. Pima Medical has been a constant in my life, and I'm proud to be part of a team that changes lives every day.
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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!
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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!
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Before going back to school, my life wasn't on the best path. After high school, I planned to become a nurse, but deep down I knew it wasn't what I really wanted. Eventually, I moved out on my own, but I found myself surrounded by the wrong people and making choices I wasn't proud of. It wasn't until I met my fiance that I seriously considered going back to school. He encouraged me to think about my future and what would truly make me happy. After some soul-searching, I decided to look for a Dental Assistant program - and for the first time, I felt excited about my future.
I found Pima Medical Institute through an online search, and after seeing so many great reviews from alumni, I knew it was the right place for me. Enrolling was the best decision I could have made. My experience at Pima Medical was nothing short of amazing - the support from my classmates, instructors, and family kept me going. My instructor, Margarita, was especially supportive. In fact, I wouldn't have made it through without her guidance.
I was excited for my externship at Associates in Family Dentistry and grateful to be hired upon completion. As I plan to move soon, I'm holding off on furthering my education for now, but I'm eager to explore my options. I am a proud graduate of Pima Medical and my ultimate goal is to build a successful career while growing my family with my fiance.
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