I was in the military and later did contract work overseas. Although I had an associate degree in maintenance management and a bachelor's in business and project management, I had difficulty finding and keeping a job here in the states. I kept being laid off or let go because of contracts or downsizing.
I just wanted a career that wasn't here today and gone tomorrow, so I decided to become a Pharmacy Technician. I found PMI one day, came in and registered, and I started the program the following Monday. I was the oldest student -- even older than my instructors -- and I had to relearn how to learn. My instructors helped me stay focused during the fast-paced program, though, and it was a great learning experience!
Thanks to the practice I had at PMI, I caught on quickly while at my externship at the local VA Hospital. I continued to volunteer at the VA until I was hired at Primrose St. Francis Hospital where I'm currently working as a Pharmacy Tech 2. It's very fast-paced; there are 11 floors, and I walk 12-15 thousand steps a day, but I enjoy it! I'm currently working on another bachelor's in health care management. My PMI instructors always encouraged us to continue our education, so I'm keeping my doors open. PMI is a great school and it provided me my start in the medical field!
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My mom spent more than 25 years as an instructor at the Tucson campus and encouraged me to explore what Pima Medical Institute had to offer. I was initially drawn to Physical Therapy, but as I learned more, I discovered Occupational Therapy. During my entrance interview for the Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program, everything about the profession resonated with me. Ten years later, I have no doubt that this is my calling.
The OTA program demanded a high level of self-accountability. I had to learn when to use the resources available, how to ask for help and how to grow through discomfort. The growing pains were worth it. My cohort became my biggest support system and those relationships have turned into lifelong friendships.
I truly appreciated being held to a higher standard throughout the program. The structure and expectations prepared me to deliver quality healthcare right out of school. The professionalism required of every student helps ensure graduates are not only ready to pass certification exams and succeed as clinicians, but also stand out when applying for jobs.
Thanks to that preparation, I was offered a position during my second fieldwork rotation and hired as soon as I completed my certification requirements. Since then, I've been fortunate to explore many settings, roles and opportunities throughout my career.
I've worked primarily with pediatric and young adult populations, serving my community through outpatient clinics, home health and school settings. I'm currently continuing my education with a bachelor's degree and plan to become a licensed Occupational Therapist (OT).
I would absolutely recommend Pima Medical to others. The OTA program prepares you to be more than just job-ready. It gives you the foundation to build a meaningful and lasting career in healthcare.
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I was tired of working as a server in a restaurant and wanted a real career with decent hours. As I began researching, I found PMI had the highest rated programs. Their Medical Administrative Assistant morning program was a good fit with my work schedule and responsibility caring for my two step daughters. I was very nervous to start classes. But my instructors were friendly and I loved everything I was learning.
I arrived early on the first day of my externship at a chiropractic office, just like PMI taught us, and they were very impressed. The manager had to take a week off so she doubled up on intense training so I could manage the office by myself. The doctors were so incredible and helpful. During my week alone, I won over their hearts! They were so pleased with my hard work and dedication so they hired me upon completion of my externship. Soon after, the office manager ended up moving and I was promoted to office manager.
My instructors at PMI both challenged me and believed in me and I'm so grateful for them! I'm not finished learning and I plan to enroll in PMI's online Health Care Administration program in the near future. Just one year ago I was a frustrated waitress. Today, I have a great career and a job I love ... and I just received a raise!
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I graduated from PMI's Chula Vista campus in 2005 with my Associates in Occupational Radiologic Science. Since then my journey on this career path has brought me countless opportunities. It is PIMA Medical Institute that gave me the realization to know I could go anywhere and be confident in my career. I moved from San Diego to Las Vegas in 2006 and had two job offers. I have been a Lead Technologist, Clinical Instructor, and even expanded my career further to include a certification in Mammography.
In 2011 I was offered a job as a Radiography Instructor at the Las Vegas campus. Without hesitation I can say this is what I was destined to do. Now I have the opportunity to bring my knowledge, passion and experience of this field to future graduates.
In 2013 I decided to take things one step further and I started my Bachelor's degree through PMI's online program. I continued to work full time while maintaining a 4.0 throughout my schooling. In April 2015, I graduated with high honors in Radiologic Sciences. This marked the first time anyone in my family graduated from college with honors.
It is now my goal to inspire others to be successful in this career, and motivate each student I encounter. I am honoring the ones who have inspired me along the way with the company who led me here. This path to my career's journey to victory could only be described as a true story of success.
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Following high school I wanted to enroll in a physical therapist assistant program at a local college. I attended a community college and took online classes to complete the pre-requisites. I had been on the school's wait list for almost three years, when they changed the requirements. I was so frustrated! In pursuing other options, I learned Pima Medical Institute had a Medical Administrative Assistant program I could finish in only seven months. After completing the program I knew I could begin my career in the medical field and later continue with their online associate degree in Health Care Administration, so I signed up!
I really enjoyed my education at PMI. The instructors were great and every class was valuable. There were no random classes that didn't apply to my career. Everything was something I could relate to. I was concerned when I started with online Health Care Administration that an 11 month program would be too intense and overwhelming. However, I found the instructors were not only responsive, but the classes were applicable to my daily work. For example, my human resources class really helped me in my role as office supervisor.
I'm currently working as a front office supervisor. I've completed my HCA associate degree and plan to continue with PMI's online HCA bachelor degree. Everything I've learned from my MAA program to my HCA classes, I find to be very valuable. I'm looking forward to the knowledge that awaits me as I continue my education.
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I was a "late bloomer" in the respiratory field. I was a single mom who raised three boys and it wasn't until they finished high school that I decided to begin a new career. At 50 years old, I quit my job and jumped into an associate's program in respiratory therapy. I was hired at UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, CA, a level one trauma center hospital and became involved in their COPD ROAD (Reversible Obstructive Airway Disease) program. We provide education, confidence and autonomy to COPD patients and their families and the results are drastically cutting re-admissions.
Becoming a COPD case manager in this program excited me enough to begin a bachelor's degree program. Pima Medical Institute's Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care program seemed like an excellent choice because it was all online and the classes were offered at a realistic pace. I received wonderful support at Pima Medical. For my Capstone project, I presented the idea of a "Singing for Therapy" class to our Pulmonary Rehab maintenance group. The idea was well received and now, five years later, it is still going strong. The self-named group, "The Rockin' Rehabbers" have performed at UC Davis Hospital, Shriner's Children's Hospital, Mather Veteran's Hospital, and have been featured on the TV show Good Morning Sacramento, KFBK radio, and a performance at the 2018 Pulmonary Rehab Conference in Sacramento, CA.
Not only are the members receiving the therapeutic benefits of singing, they have formed bonds with each other and the group, and continue to give back to the community with these performances. Thank you Pima Medical Institute!
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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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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.
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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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After high school, I spent four years juggling two jobs-one at Office Max and the other at a bakery-when one day, my aunt called and asked if I wanted to go back to school with her. I had no idea what she meant, but I agreed. That's how I found Pima Medical Institute. I chose the Medical Assistant (MA) program because, when my dad was ill, I saw firsthand the impact healthcare professionals can have on a person's life. I wanted to do that too, and the program was only nine months long, which made it a perfect fit for me.
I loved every minute of the MA program! The hands-on training felt so different from high school, and I found myself excited to learn. In particular, I discovered I had a passion for injections and blood draws. When it was time for my externship, I was nervous, but my head MA was incredibly supportive, and I quickly found that it all came naturally to me.
Toward the end of the program our homework assignment was to apply for three MA positions. Afterwards, I didn't think much about it, but to my surprise, Saguaro Dermatology called and hired me. Dermatology is fast-paced and challenging, but I love it. My favorite part is working with skin cancers and assisting in surgeries. I also enjoy my role in the lab, processing tissue samples as a histotech.
Since relocating to Tucson, I easily found another dermatology position, and I couldn't be happier. Pima Medical set me on a path I'm truly passionate about, and I'd do it all over again. If you're thinking about a medical career, don't hesitate-come to Pima Medical. You won't regret it!
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Back in 2005, I was working in Public Relations at National Jewish Health, the nation's #1 respiratory hospital, when I first discovered the field of Respiratory Therapy (RT). Fascinated by the work, I asked the Director of Respiratory who offered the best RT program. Without hesitation, he said, "Pima Medical Institute." My decision was made.
My time in the Respiratory Therapy program at Pima Medical was incredible. The hands-on training during clinical rotations left me feeling fully prepared to enter the field. In fact, I had two job offers before I even graduated. Pima Medical's commitment to student success is unmatched-they're truly invested in 100% job placement, and it shows. Over the years, I've precepted students from many schools, and Pima Medical graduates consistently stand out as being the most prepared.
Today, I work at Craig Hospital near Denver, Colorado, a leading acute rehabilitation center specializing in traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. I've built a new division within the department and now serve as the Respiratory Patient Education & Discharge Coordinator. My role involves training patients and their families to manage ventilators and tracheostomies at home, coordinating equipment and supplies, and often flying with patients across the country to ensure a smooth transition home.
In 2012, I was honored as Colorado Respiratory Therapist of the Year and in 2025, I received the National PHIL Award for Patient Advocacy.
I owe much of my success to Pima Medical Institute's exceptional program. To this day, I recommend it to anyone interested in Respiratory Care-it truly is the best!
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