Back in 2001 I enrolled in Pima Medical Institute's Medical Assistant Program. I was actually interested in nursing, but I had a young child and I just didn't have time to be on a waiting list. I enjoyed the program and ended up working as a Medical Assistant for 10 years until I felt like I had hit that glass ceiling and I couldn't grow any more.
I called PMI to see if they had a next step for me. When I learned about their online Health Care Administration associate's degree program, I got really excited! It was challenging, but I was motivated. My kids were a little older and they understood our life would change for a time while I was working and going to school, so we made it a family affair and we all studied together each night. My classes were really beneficial. They prepared me for leadership and management; skills I need for my current position. Our instructors made the classes practical. For example, we would have class discussions on how to handle patients who were upset. When I finished the program I realized I wanted to keep going, so I continued on and completed PMI's Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration. I am currently employed at Westmed Family Healthcare as their Clinical Supervisor. I would encourage other MAs to continue their education. Combining my years of experience with the online degrees from PMI has opened more doors for me in the healthcare field.
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When I first walked through the doors of Pima Medical Institute, life was a challenge! My husband was out of work, and we, along with our six-month-old baby, were living with his mother. Plus, I had dropped out of school at 5th grade and since my mother wasn't familiar with homeschooling, I taught myself at home through high school. Today, after completing four programs, we own a beautiful home, and our now eight-year-old daughter is thriving. Our lives have completely transformed. I'm a 5th grade dropout with a master's degree - nothing is impossible if you really want it.
I began with the nine-month Medical Assistant (MA) program. Balancing full-time work and school was tough-I cried many times on my drive to class-but I never gave up. I was determined to build a better life for my family. That determination drove me to continue my education, earning my associate degree in Health Care Administration (HCA), a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration (BSHCA), and eventually a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL).
Throughout this journey, I've worked and gone to school simultaneously. Thanks to the education and skills I gained at Pima Medical, I've never struggled to find opportunities. In fact, I've had the privilege of being selective about my career path. I've grown from being an MA to a referral coordinator, and now, I'm in my first management position-a role I secured a month before earning my master's degree. Each program at Pima Medical played a crucial role in my career progression. My master's degree, in particular, has been invaluable. As a clinic manager building a new practice from scratch, I've relied on the knowledge I gained every step of the way.
Thank you, Pima Medical Institute, for changing my life and helping me achieve my dreams. If only my first instructor, Ms. Lakeeta Garfield, could see me now. So often her words - "Be thorough," have run through my mind. I have strived to be thorough in everything I do and I have been successful.
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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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I was living in Argentina, where my family is from, and was attending veterinarian school when the economy there began crumbling. I knew I had to do something with animals, so shortly after I moved back to the states I found Pima Medical Institute's Veterinary Technician program and one month later I started school.
I had to support myself, so I immediately began looking for a job. Within a couple weeks I was hired at Tropicana Animal Hospital. I'm convinced the reason they hired me was because I was a student at PMI. One of the reasons I chose PMI was its flexible schedule. I was able to work all day and attend school from 6-10 pm every night. I was tired much of the time and I had to put my social life on hold, but it went by fast and it was worth it.
I was able to continue my job at Tropicana and about 6 months after graduation, they promoted me to a supervisory position. I ended up being able to hire several of my classmates. In fact, of the 16 assistants/technicians working under me, all but 2 are Pima graduates. We currently provide externships for many PMI students. They come with a great knowledge base and we're able to provide the hands on experience. PMI gives you everything you need to be successful; you just need to apply it.
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After I obtained a bachelor's degree in industrial microbiology, I found it challenging to find a job in the pharmaceutical or medical device industry as a microbiologist. Every time I looked for a job in the laboratories, they required certifications from a medical laboratory technician (MLT) or medical laboratory sciences (MLS) program, which I didn't have. So, I decided to go back to school to get the certification I needed.
I started an MLT program at another educational institution, but in June of 2017 that institution transferred the program to Pima Medical Institute. I think it was the best thing that could have happened to me and my peers because Pima Medical took us in and helped us finish what we started.
At the time, I was pregnant and had two other children to care for. Even though the obstacles were great, my family and my instructors made the transition and process smooth and efficient. The MLT program instructors, program director and administrative staff were always available to help with whatever I needed. During my externship, I was hired as a quality specialist for a microbiology department with Infinity Laboratories. I've since decided I want more and am hoping to be accepted into a physician assistant program in the near future.
Pima Medical Institute prepared me for my profession. I am thankful to God, my family and Pima Medical for their support. Pima Medical is an outstanding educational institution and prepares students for success. I am grateful to have been part of this organization.
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After graduating from high school, I attended UTEP (University of Texas at El Paso) but despite attempting a number of majors, I still didn't have a plan. The thing that brought me joy was volunteering at the shelter where I adopted my dog. I really loved working with the animals and it made me realize that's what I was meant to do.
I began researching schools with a veterinary program around El Paso and found Pima Medical Institute and enrolled in the Veterinary Assistant program. I cannot tell you how excited and joyful I was to finally start on a path to a career I knew I would love! I had a great experience during my 9-month program. My instructor was wonderful and I received lots of hands-on practice. I was placed in Boerne, near San Antonio, at the Cibolo Creek Veterinary Hospital for my externship and before I left to head back to El Paso, they offered me a position!
After almost three years as a Veterinary Assistant I decided to continue my education and enrolled in the Veterinary Technician program, this time at the Pima Medical in San Antonio. I have been learning so much and am enjoying getting exposure in different areas like exotics and livestock. I appreciate my instructors sharing their experiences and providing hands-on instruction. I plan to graduate later this year.
I love the veterinary field and I am so thankful to Pima Medical for providing a path to a great career that I love!
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My life before Pima Medical Institute involved low paying jobs and starting many things that I never finished. I was a single mom living with my parents wanting more but not knowing where to go. My niece was interested in nursing and had set up an appointment at Pima Medical but was nervous about going alone and asked me to go with her. She never showed up for the interview and, knowing I needed a change; I began talking with the advisor about a possible career for myself.
Before I knew it, I was starting the Respiratory Therapy program. I hadn't been in a classroom in 20 years. It wasn't easy and it was very humbling, but the campus director, the staff, and the instructors were very supportive and encouraging. Crystal, one of my instructors, became my mentor and every time I struggled, she would NOT let me quit. In the past, this had been my pattern to quit, but she helped me break that pattern, and she is the reason I finished the program.
I felt like I hadn't accomplished anything in 43 years, but now I have a job at Banner Desert and I feel so good about myself. My daughter is so proud of me. I finally completed my associate's degree, and I realized I CAN finish things, so I'm not stopping. I just enrolled in Pima Medical's online Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy program.
My life after Pima Medical Institute has improved so much, and it is incredible! If you would have told me two years ago that I would have a career and be working on my bachelor's, I would never have believed it. I feel alive and blessed!
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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!
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After being a truck driver and construction worker for 20 plus years, I made a promise to my mother before she died that I would go back to school. For nearly five years I passed Pima Medical Institute on my daily drive, and finally found the courage to pull in and take the pretest for the Nursing program. Going back to school at age 50 was scary, but I loved the atmosphere, the instructors and my classmates at Pima Medical. The instructors did an exceptional and extraordinary job preparing us for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).
I applied at Banner Desert in Mesa where I had completed my clinicals and I was hired. It was 2019, and I was immediately thrown into the COVID Pandemic. A year later I decided to become a traveling nurse. Initially, I worried I might not be qualified enough or have enough experience, but I quickly got over that. Every place is different, but most of the core staff really appreciates the relief that travelers provide. I have been to 10 different places in four years. I'm considered a Banner Staffing Traveler within the Banner facilities nationwide and I call Banner Tucson my home, as it is where I spend the most time. Some of the challenges of being a traveler are finding a place to live and being away from family and friends. But, I am getting experience and confidence in different facilities and becoming more adaptable and flexible in my career. Plus, I am making a great salary.
Pima Medical Institute changed my life forever. I made some lifelong friends during my experience, I had some incredible, humble, giving and caring instructors and I am truly grateful!
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At age 19, I started at Pima Medical Institute after realizing that my initial path at UNM wasn't the right fit for me at that time. A friend suggested looking into CT technology, and after some research, I found that Pima Medical's Radiography (RAD) program offered a quicker and more fitting path to my career goals. The structured environment in the RAD program was exactly what I needed, although it wasn't always easy. My father passed away during my second semester, which made it tough to stay on track, but with the support of the school, I persevered. The clinical experiences were mostly positive, giving me valuable hands-on learning. Even in challenging situations, I gained skills by working independently, which proved to be great learning experiences.
Graduating in 2004, I entered the workforce during a tech shortage and quickly landed a job. I started in x-ray and, over the years, expanded my expertise by becoming registered in mammography, bone density, and MRI. However, I chose to focus on mammography, as it offered a better work-life balance compared to MRI.
After a decade at a hospital, I transitioned to a quieter clinic setting where I could work more independently, which suits me well. I've been at a small clinic for nearly a year now, enjoying the stability and better hours. Alongside my career, I'm also completing my bachelor's degree in university studies, thanks to a state program offering free classes to those close to finishing their degree.
Looking ahead, I'm content with where I am but open to new opportunities, possibly in management. Pima Medical set me up for success, giving me the tools I needed to start and grow my career in radiology. Now 20 years later, I'm grateful for the education and experiences that have brought me to where I am today.
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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.
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I spent nearly seven years working as a Medical Assistant (MA) before I finally decided to continue my education and complete the Radiography program at Pima Medical Institute. One of the biggest obstacles I faced was my commute - I live in Colorado Springs, so this was a 74-mile drive each way to attend class at the Denver Campus. That meant spending at least two and a half hours a day just on the road, in addition to my coursework, clinicals and job at UCHealth.
The instructors at Pima Medical were incredible. They were more than just educators-they were mentors who believed in me, even when I doubted myself. The program was challenging, but it was also incredibly rewarding. I loved every moment of it, and I genuinely believe that the hands-on, real-world experience I gained during my time there has set me up for success in my new career.
One of the most exciting parts of this journey was being hired to work for both UCHealth and Penrad Imaging before even completing my program. I was offered a full-time position at Penrad Imaging and later, I was hired as a PRN at UCHealth. It was a huge confidence boost, knowing that I was already making an impact in the field even before passing my ARRT registry exam.
Now, I'm officially a Radiologic Technologist, and I couldn't be more excited to start this new chapter of my career. Every challenge, every late night, every moment of doubt was worth it. Thank you Pima Medical!
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