I had my daughter at a young age and realized I needed to focus on a career and a future for us. After months of research, I made the decision to attend PMI's Medical Assisting program while working as a full time single mother. We'd leave the house at 5:30 am, I'd drop her off at daycare, come to school, then go to work, pick her up from daycare, get home at 8:30 pm, eat dinner, put her to bed and I'd do homework for a couple hours and get to bed around 1- 2 am, and wake up and do it all over again. My motivation to stay strong and work hard was my daughter! My teachers encouraged me through my program and they believed in me 100%. After I graduated, I worked in a hospital followed by a pediatrician's office. Today, I work for an outpatient family medicine clinic and I love it!
I wouldn't trade anything I went through to get where I am today. My little girl and I now have a home, she has a yard to play in and everything that a little girl should have growing up, and so much more. I've recently been offered a promotion for a leadership role. They will be paying for me to go back to school to get my RN and Surgical Tech degrees. When people ask me how I got to where I am today, I tell them PMI.
PMI all the way!
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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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When I chose the Radiography Program at PMI, I had no idea the camaraderie I would experience with both my instructors and my classmates. The instructors always seemed to have my best interests in mind, including taking the time to work with me one-on-one. My classmates were very close knit. In fact, quite a few of us have maintained friendships and have even been resources for jobs over the years.
Finding a job when I graduated was fairly easy. I had rotated through four hospitals building relationships with other co-workers and allowing them to see my work ethic. I was hired at one of the clinical sites and while there, eventually moved into management. I've had the opportunity to be a Regional Director for two hospitals and, currently, I'm the Director of Imaging Services at Alvarado Medical Center.
PMI set me up for success. I didn't just learn the radiography piece; they taught me the front office, the billing side, and everything else from start to finish. When I started my career, I had a broad view and experience that made me more valuable as an employee. I'm so thankful for my instructors. They were approachable and made me want to learn. I still go to them regularly for advice. We have built a partnership.
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I was born in Miami to immigrant parents from Cuba, and I travelled to Las Vegas with my mother when I was 14. Unfortunately, being a single mother with an adolescent daughter was taking a financial toll on my mother, so I dropped out of high school when I was 17 to work two full-time jobs, as a face painter at Circus Circus Casino and as a retail cashier. I later obtained my G.E.D. and decided that a career working with animals was for me.
I enrolled in PMI's Veterinary Assistant Program in 2004, and I graduated with honors. Finding satisfaction working with animals prompted me to continue my education when PMI started their Veterinary Technician Program and I returned. After graduation, I sat for the Veterinary Technician National Examination and passed with a score in the top 10% in the nation.
Academic success and shelter experience led to a position at the Las Vegas Emergency Hospital where I was promoted to technician supervisor and the mainstay veterinary emergency nurse. I am currently working on a dual degree in Environmental Science/Chemistry at UNLV.
Without the support of parents or siblings, I learned early in life to set goals and obtain them with hard work in everything I do. I really value the experience of my education from Pima Medical Institute and I know the faculty of the PMI Veterinary Technology Program is proud of me!
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Occupational Therapy was not my career goal. Like many good things in life, I didn't find OT, it found me. After earning a Bachelor's degree in Journalism in 2008, I spent the next three years working as a successful public relations professional. But in 2011 at the age of 23, I had a hemorrhagic stroke that resulted in complete paralysis of my right side. After brain surgery, my OTs and OTAs taught me how to dress, bathe and care for myself again. They worked with my right arm to facilitate motor and sensory recovery; helped increase my balance, strength and endurance; taught me compensatory strategies; and provided me the tools to regain my independence. During this year and a half process, I would often think about how much I would like to become a therapist and help others, if I could ever recover enough.
After much hard work and many miracles, I enrolled in the OTA program at Pima Medical Institute. After graduation in 2013, I was the first OTA hired at the foremost neurological rehabilitation clinic in Arizona (SWAN Rehab). Since then, I have been able to help many patients - most of them stroke survivors - increase their independence and celebrate their second chance at life.
In 2015, I was presented with the Outstanding Occupational Therapy Assistant award from the Arizona Occupational Therapy Association. Thank you PMI for providing the training I needed to make a difference in other's lives.
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I worked for the census bureau for almost 5 years but I always wanted to do something in healthcare. So when a coworker invited me to come with her to check out Pima Medical Institute, I jumped at the chance. I knew very little about the Respiratory Therapy Program, but I signed up. I had wonderful instructors and a great experience. It was challenging to work full time and attend classes but I knew my goal.
After working in many areas of respiratory at Banner Hospital, I transitioned into Pulmonary Function Testing. I knew I wanted more so I came back to Pima Medical and enrolled in the online Health Care Administration Bachelor Degree program. I have 3 children and I continued working full time while taking classes, so it was challenging but also very convenient to my life and I found the instructors to be very responsive.
After graduating, I was promoted to the Respiratory Manager for Pulmonary Function. Part of my bachelor's requirement was to build a business plan. I had chosen to create a Mobile Pulmonary Lab business and that process totally prepared me for my current position. Actually, many of my online classes were applicable to my job. We even learned leadership and communication skills through our group discussions. Both of my programs at Pima Medical were a great learning experience for me! My family is first, but eventually I would love to continue my education and get my master's degree. Thanks for my start, Pima Medical!
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I was a stay at home mom for 18 years. When my oldest child headed to college I felt like I had lost my identity and purpose, but I just wasn't sure what I wanted to do. I knew I didn't want to be behind a desk and I enjoyed being on my feet and using my hands. So when I saw the commercial for the Dental Assisting Program and Pima Medical Institute, I decided it might be a fit for me.
It was somewhat intimidating going back to school when I was the oldest student in the class and it was certainly challenging having homework again while balancing family and home life. But, my instructor was helpful and cheered me on.
I felt very prepared, although extremely nervous, for my hands on externship experience. But I learned so much and it helped me understand that I really wanted to work in a specialty area of dentistry. I was initially hired at a general practice but soon found the place I really belonged; a periodontist office. I absolutely love it! I enjoy meeting and getting to know my patients. I have great coworkers and wonderful doctors who continue to teach me about their specialty. I love it all and am so happy!
Pima Medical has been so good in helping me go from "what's my purpose?" to "this is where I should be!" Finding that out and being happy where I am has been everything. It has done so much for me! Plus, my kids are really proud of me.
I love the patients!
It's different every day!
It's a lot of fun.
I love it! I'm so glad I did this!
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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.
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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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After twelve-plus years as a personal trainer, I found myself needing a job with benefits like a 401K and insurance, so I transitioned to a desk job. However, I was miserable and knew I needed a career that left me feeling fulfilled. I reevaluated my passions and realized I still loved working with bodies and physical health. A co-worker who had attended Pima Medical Institute for the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program encouraged me to consider it. After researching and learning about the program, I decided to go back to school. Despite my experience, I wasn't initially accepted into the PTA program. Crushed but determined, I quit my desk job and worked as a rehab tech at an assisted living facility for a year. When I reapplied, I was accepted and I set a goal to graduate with honors.
At 39, I was older than most of my classmates, but I felt more prepared for the professional aspects. My instructors were great clinicians and I was able to learn and draw on their experiences. My clinicals were challenging, especially when COVID hit, causing disruptions. Despite the added stress, our instructors ensured we gained the necessary practical experience. After graduation, I worked at a skilled nursing facility, which I enjoyed, but quickly experienced burnout. I accepted a Physical Therapist Assistant position at Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy, where I have been thriving. In fact, a year ago I was promoted to Clinic Director. I love my job, my patients and the challenges of managing the clinic.
As a clinical instructor, I work with Pima Medical students, drawing on my experiences to engage them in hands-on learning. I'm proud to have graduated with honors and have even inspired a former client of mine to enroll in Pima Medical's Respiratory Therapy program. Now, both of us are medical professionals making a difference in people's lives. It's incredibly fulfilling!
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Pima Medical Institute has been a cornerstone in my career, providing a foundation that has endured through different stages of my life. Now, I'm excited to return to school and build on that strong base.
No one in my family is in the dental field, but I've always had a passion for becoming a dental hygienist. After high school, I spent five years working in Alaska's fishing industry. Upon returning to Seattle, I inquired about the Dental Hygiene program at Pima Medical Institute and ultimately enrolled in the Dental Assistant program. Balancing full-time work during the day with evening classes at Pima Medical was challenging but rewarding. My teacher was great, and I formed lasting friendships-I'm still close with one of my classmates more than 20 years later.
My first job was with a doctor in West Seattle, where I worked for two years before needing to go on bed rest due to pregnancy. I took a 15-year break to focus on being a mom. Remarkably, I was able to jump right back into my career as a Dental Assistant when I was ready. After moving to Phoenix, I started working as a temp and then secured my current position at Anthem Sonoran Valley Implants and Dental Center. It felt like riding a bike-everything came back to me. I love educating patients and helping them take care of their teeth. Currently, I'm in the process of applying to a Dental Hygiene program in my area. I want to further my education in the dental field and one day I hope to be able to clean teeth for free to help people who can't afford dental care.
Pima Medical Institute has been supportive throughout my journey, from enrolling and securing financing to ongoing assistance whenever I need it. I'm incredibly grateful for the education and opportunities Pima Medical has provided me.
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Dentistry was always in my plan, but life took a turn when I became a young mom while attending NMSU (New Mexico State University). Returning home, I started working for a family friend's dental practice, fell in love with the field, and decided to officially pursue a career in Dental Assisting (DA). I was looking for a fast-paced program and Pima Medical Institute was the perfect fit. My experience there was fantastic-I applied what I learned on the job and made lifelong friends.
After working as a dental assistant for a year, I decided to further my career and enrolled in the Dental Hygiene (DH) program at Pima Medical. The program was challenging, but the instructors were incredible. I was taught by some of the icons of dental hygiene and I thrived in the rigorous environment. Upon graduation, I quickly secured a job as a dental hygienist, working five days a week to maximize my education. Over time, I got married, had another son, and excelled in my career, and began working in a corporate dental setting. In 2021, I returned to Pima Medical as an instructor in the hygiene clinic, a full-circle moment. To say I loved it would be an understatement. Not only did I find my passion for teaching, I got to continue learning alongside my students.
Currently, I'm preparing to open New Mexico's first dental hygiene studio to meet the needs of preventative care. I hope to employ several dental hygienists and we plan to collaborate with local dentists. I'm also starting a dental hygiene consulting business. I am excited about this business venture and genuinely credit my success to the education I received at Pima Medical. I am incredibly grateful to my instructors for shaping me into the professional I am today.
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