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YOU ARE ONE OF 170,000 GRADUATES!
"...the only real measuring stick of a school's success is the achievement of its students."
Theresa DiazHealth Care AdministrationOnline Elizabeth LeosDental AssistantAurora Bryanna BrowRespiratory TherapyDenver Rachel SanchezRadiographyAlbuquerque Quincy SkeenRespiratory Therapy BSOnline Matthew PlayerRespiratory TherapyMesa Marie Antoinette ParagasHealth Care AdministrationOnline Latanya WatsonMasters in Organizational LeadershipOnline Tyeisha MedinaMedical AssistantDenver Ashley HollandVeterinary TechnicianSeattle Tahjiza JonesMasters in Organizational LeadershipOnline Brianna GarciaMedical AssistantDenver
Theresa Romero-Diaz CDA Albuquerque Campus 2014 During my childhood, one of my favorite places to go was the dental office. The memories stayed with me. In 1989 I saw a classified ad for PMI, which led me to the admissions office and a career as a Dental Assistant. As a student, I had many challenges; I had to take my son to the day care, I didn't have a car and I relied on public transportation to get to school. I was pregnant during school and when my daughter came early, I had to go on a leave of absence. When I returned to school, I was able to continue my honor roll status. My instructors motivated me, and I really enjoyed learning. After graduation, I worked for several years as a Dental Assistant and enjoyed every minute. In 1993, I returned to PMI as an instructor and have been here ever since. It is easy for me to identify with many of my students, and I constantly get the opportunity to help others become successful. Some of my students have become Dental Hygienists and even Dentists, and I am extremely proud of them! In 2018 I was able to continue my education through PMI and obtain my associates in Health Care Administration from our Online Campus. I give thanks to Pima Medical Institute and to God for giving me the opportunity to be a part of a wonderful organization.
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.
I wasn't really sure what I wanted to do with my life. I began working as a CNA, and through my experiences in the hospital, I became excited about a possible career in the medical field. I heard a commercial about Pima Medical Institute and decided the quickest way into a career was enrolling in their 9 month Medical Assistant program. That opened the door for me, but I loved learning and knew I wanted more. My dad passed away in 2015 from a drowning incident and that experience pushed me toward the respiratory therapy field. Through that incident I was able to observe the amazing work that respiratory therapists do and I said to myself, "I want to be one of them". One year after completing the MA program, I started Pima Medical's Respiratory Therapy program and I loved every moment of it! The program was challenging, but our classes were small and I connected with my classmates. We developed an almost family-type relationship. I loved my instructors; they really wanted us to succeed. After completing my clinical experience, I was hired at St Anthony North Medical Health Center in Westminster, CO. I love my job! Recently, I have been working in the COVID ICU. I help intubate, manage ventilators and endotracheal tubes and give breathing treatments to those struggling to breath. I feel like I have found my calling. I love Pima Medical. They did so much for me. Down the road I hope to continue my education by getting my bachelor's degree and possibly even obtaining my master's degree in the respiratory field.
I was in my early 20's, ready to complete a degree in finance when I realized I really didn't want to spend my life sitting behind a desk. I had a few family members working in the radiography field and I noticed they not only had a great career, but they could choose to work in different modalities and had lots of variety in their jobs. I began researching, found Pima Medical Institute's Radiography program and enrolled. I had wonderful instructors! It's an intense and tough program, but the way the program is structured really makes you feel prepared for your profession. I enjoyed the shorter rotations for clinicals which exposed me to many different areas and modalities. Once I knew what I was looking for, I was able to complete multiple rotations in my area of interest which prepared me for a job at that very location. I was hired at University of New Mexico Hospital (UNMH) and after a year I was promoted to a charge technologist and almost 2 years ago I moved into the role of General Radiology Supervisor. I love the fast-paced environment at UNMH. We're the only trauma one hospital in the state and we see something new every day. I'm not the only Pima Medical graduate in my department, we currently have five employees that were my classmates and each year I hire multiple new Pima Medical new graduates. Pima Medical provided a great education and really prepared me for the field.
My mother had a neuromuscular disease called Myasthenia Gravis, which resulted in her needing to be intubated and trached throughout her life, so I was familiar with respiratory. At age 19, I started my career path in the medical field as a transporter at Sunrise Hospital. As I worked with and observed the Respiratory Therapists (RT), I began to understand the importance of their profession. I knew then, this was the career for me, so I enrolled in Pima Medical Institute's RT program. I appreciated the support from both administration and instructors and their belief that I could become a productive member of the RT community. My classmates provided support throughout the rigorous program and there was a great camaraderie among us. I remember having study sessions, gatherings, and cookouts in the parking lot with the faculty, staff and students. Having the opportunity to work in professional clinical settings while in school provided the perspective I needed and upon graduation, I was promoted to a full-time Respiratory Therapist at my hospital. I also worked with University Medical Center (UMC). I continued my education in Pima Medical's Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy (BSRT) and then went on to complete my Master's Degree in Business Administration at Columbia Southern University. I am still employed with UMC as their Senior Respiratory Therapist and I have been a Clinical Instructor for Pima Medical Institute's Las Vegas Campus since 2016. My eventual goal is to move into hospital administration becoming a VP or COO. I am very thankful for Pima Medical Institute. Anything worth having is worth working for, and true education is what you are willing to put into it whether you're at Yale, Harvard or Pima Medical. Therefore, always attempt to set the standard of excellence in everything you do and everything you love.
I am currently the Director of Cardiopulmonary at Mount Graham Regional Medical Center in Safford, AZ. I had been intrigued by the healthcare field for a while, but was unsure about my path. While looking for an accelerated program with promising earning potential, Pima Medical Institute kept popping up in my online searches. After attending their introduction to the Respiratory Therapy (RT) program, I immediately knew I had found the program for me and it turned out to be a great choice! I was 30 years old when I went back to school and while I had fun, I also took school seriously. What set Pima Medical apart was the outstanding preparation we were provided. During my clinicals, I noticed that our students were more confident, knowledgeable, and ready for the real world compared to my peers from other schools. The most challenging part for me was that I lived in Safford with my wife and two young daughters (about 2.5 hours away). I would leave them, attend school Monday through Friday and then drive back home for weekends. It was very hard, but thankfully, ended up being worth it! I began my career at Mt. Graham, and quickly became the lead respiratory therapist. I continued my education, earning my bachelor's degree in Health Science: Professional Development and Advanced Patient Care in 2017. After just five years as an RT, I assumed the role of Director of Cardiopulmonary, a testament to the comprehensive education and hands-on experience I had received. Even though it's been 12 years since graduating from Pima Medical, I still vividly remember each of my instructors, who played a crucial role in shaping my success. I recommend Pima Medical to potential students often, as it truly was a great education and overall experience for me.
Initially drawn to nursing, I spent a few years juggling shifts as a CNA while attending traditional community colleges and universities attempting to get my prerequisites. Those avenues did not fit my learning style and I never found the guidance I needed so I wasn't successful. The struggle intensified after losing my mother unexpectedly, prompting an immediate return home to support my father and a complete reset. Advertisements for Pima Medical Institute led me to make an appointment. After hearing my advisor talk about the Medical Assistant (MA) program, I knew this was going to be my next stepping stone into the medical field. I had amazing instructors who provided the guidance I needed and launched me into my new career. I started working at US Healthworks/Concentra specializing in Occupational Medicine/ Urgent Care where I obtained skills in drug screening, audiology and pulmonary testing, as well as basic x-rays. After three fulfilling years I was ready for my next challenge, so I returned to the Renton Campus where I transitioned into teaching the Medical Assistant program. I loved being right back where I had started, now teaching the next generation of MA's. Pima Medical's support extended beyond the classroom and I was given the opportunity to use their Enrichment Scholarship to earn an associate degree in Health Care Administration (HCA). In 2023, I ventured into Pima Medical's Admissions Department as a Medical Career Specialist. This role truly feeds my purpose. I am able to inspire students by sharing my experiences and then encourage them to take the first step toward their own career. My decade long journey with Pima Medical Institute is a testament to the transformative impact that has truly changed my life.
I started my medical career at Pima Medical Institute more than 16 years ago when I enrolled in the Medical Assistant (MA) program. I felt very connected and comfortable in the program and I developed both personal and professional skills. This led to my decision to return to Pima Medical to complete the online bachelor's degree in Health Care Administration (BSHCA) and my current enrollment in the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) program. Pima Medical really does feel like family. Throughout my programs I faced many obstacles in my personal life. But with strong family support and wonderful instructors, I was able to stay on track, keep going and not give up. As a fulltime employee, student, and mother it's important to have a work/life balance. Pima Medical offers flexible courses to make this all possible. I work at Valleywise Health Hospital, home to the biggest Refugee Health Medical Center in Phoenix. As a Clinical Research Coordinator in the OB-GYN Department, I coordinate final research projects for 38 Resident MD's from Creigton University. I assist in the development of their study protocols by formulating their study plan, and I am building a team and implementing new strategies for more efficiency in the program. Upon completion of my master's degree, I plan to begin a doctoral program in Health Care Administration. My goal is to one day run organizations that improve the health of disadvantaged populations such as high-risk poverty, social exclusion, and low-income families. My education at Pima Medical has strengthened my problem-solving skills, critical thinking and communication skills. I apply these in my profession today and my leadership team has praised me for this. I am proof of how Pima Medical Institute can propel to be success in the medical field.
After moving from Texas to Colorado for a fresh start, I was determined to build a stable career in the medical field. Research led me to Pima Medical Institute, and from the moment I began speaking with admissions, I knew it was the right choice. Despite facing many challenges, I embarked on the Medical Assistant (MA) program with unwavering determination. I started living in my car three weeks after starting the MA program. I was juggling homelessness, school and a full-time job. I struggled finding safe places to park, hot and cold nights, and finding time between work and school to do homework, sleep and get to the gym to take showers. I found incredible support from caring and understanding instructors who became like family to me. They provided resources and encouragement, helping me navigate the toughest moments. As difficult as my situation was, school was my biggest motivation and the people at Pima Medical were my support and prepared me for my future. Thanks to great instructors and comprehensive training, I excelled at my externship at Advanced Urgent Care, impressing my supervisors enough to secure a job offer before even graduating. To my instructors at Pima Medical, I owe a debt of gratitude. I am the person I am today because of you. Your unwavering support and belief in me kept me going when times were toughest. Thank you for never giving up on me. You've shaped me into the professional I am today and I will forever be grateful.
In 2005, while browsing technical programs online, Pima Medical Institute's Veterinary Assistant (VA) Program caught my eye. I filled out a request for more information and, to my surprise, Niki Riggleman, a recently retired yet highly esteemed instructor, called me immediately. Despite never having had an interest in veterinary medicine before, that call changed my life. I can't imagine being in any other field today and I'm so grateful Niki called me! I completed the VA Program and returned to complete the Veterinary Technician (VT) Program in 2007. It was a privilege to be part of the very first VT class at the Seattle Campus. One aspect of Pima Medical I truly appreciated was its accessibility; the ability to attend night classes and work during the day allowed me to maintain a steady income while pursuing my education. The hands-on classroom experience, combined with working in the field, was crucial to my professional growth. My journey with VCA Animal Hospitals began with my first externship, where I was hired even before completing it. Almost 20 years later, I'm still with VCA and grateful to have found my place there. I worked as a VA, a VT and then quickly moved up to Technician Supervisor and a regional training role. In 2020, I became the Regional Technician Director for the Northwest & Hawaii Group, supporting veterinary teams across five states. Additionally, as the current President of the Washington State Association of Veterinary Technicians (WSAVT) and a former District Chair for the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA), I am dedicated to improving the careers of Veterinary Technicians and Assistants. Ensuring their optimal utilization and safety is crucial to our profession, helping us continue to serve our patients effectively.
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.
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.

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3/5/2020 Mesa Campus Mesa OTA Alumni - Celebrating 10 Years PHOTOS
2/20/2020 Houston Campus Houston Campus Alumni Event PHOTOS