I was 45 years old and working in sales when I had an experience that changed my life. My father fell very ill and after seeing him in and out of rehab facilities, I decided to take him home. I cared for him during the last six months of his life. As a result of that experience, I made the decision to leave my job and pursue a career in the nursing field.
After a little research, I enrolled in Pima Medical Institute's Nursing program. I hadn't been in a classroom since high school, so it was a little intimidating. It was a challenge, but the quality of the instructors and the quality of the program were great and I had a really supportive class. Clinicals are the real deal and where you work with your patients and get immersed into the culture. All of my clinical sites allowed me to be hands on and that set me up for success.
During the last week of nursing classes, Dependable Home Health gave a presentation explaining their company and nursing positions. I applied and have been working their ever since. I really enjoy home health because you have a different level of independence; you are required to use your critical thinking and reasoning every day and the doctors trust your assessments and opinions. After about a year of working in the field, I was promoted to their Clinical Manager position supervising other nurses, therapists, LPNs and aides.
I would highly recommend Pima Medical Institute to anyone looking for a career in the nursing field. The program is well structured and, although it's demanding, it is very rewarding!
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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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There are many reasons I chose to attend Pima Medical Institute. Being a military wife, I wanted to choose a school and program that would allow me to work in other states if necessary. Upon my first tour of the campus, I felt welcomed and at home. My admissions advisor believed in me and was so encouraging. I also chose PMI because of the schedule, smaller class size, and the hands on training. PMI made it easy for me to attend classes and work full time.
During my time as a student I faced many challenges. I was struggling with finances and I found out I was pregnant two weeks before classes started. But, my financial aid advisor answered questions, helped me apply for grants, and made the process seamless. My instructors were knowledgeable and challenged me to reach new heights. I'll never forget the encouragement they gave me. PMI helped me keep focused and even worked around my maternity leave.
Pima Medical Institute not only helped me with job placement, resumes, and interviews, they gave me the tools to succeed. After graduation, I was accepted into a company that promoted me to a lead assistant position in under two years. I now get to walk into a job that I love, and I am rewarded with the opportunity to help change lives one smile at a time.
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I am a Medical Assistant at Children's Hospital of Colorado where I work in the pulmonary department, and I love my job! Believe it or not, I wake up every day excited to come to work. I can't wait to see the families and kids.
Way before PMI, I was trained in the animal science field, and later my husband and I ran an HOA management company for a number of years. Unexpectedly, two family members became very ill, and walking through this very difficult experience led me to desire a career in the medical field.
After finding Pima Medical Institute, I never hesitated. I thought of it one day, signed up the next, and started the Medical Assistant program a month later. It was not only the right timing, it was the right place, and it has been an amazing journey!
I had a great student experience at Pima, and the instructors were amazing. They cared about us and were available anytime any of us needed anything. To be honest, they actually became more like friends than teachers. My current job is a perfect fit for me, and I'm so grateful for my training at PMI!
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My dad had a bout of pneumonia and ended up on a ventilator and I was fascinated watching the respiratory therapist control my dad's breathing. I'd been working in the auto industry, never thought I was college material, but I my family believed in and motivated me to look into the field. I set up a tour of Pima Medical Institute with the program director and as I saw the facility and listened to her, I fell in love with her passion for respiratory therapy. Being a student at Pima Medical was certainly challenging for me, but the support I had from instructors and classmates was amazing. Our class decided that no one was going to fail, so when someone was struggling with a concept, we all rallied around them. The instructors were always available for extra help and by the time I got to clinicals, I really felt prepared. Prior to graduation I obtained a position with Banner South, a hospital that had been part of my community since I'd been a child.
While performing bedside care as a respiratory therapist, I recognized that healthcare doesn't stop at the bedside. I became interested in looking at how, for example, a patient's social economic situation impacted their outcome. Knowing I wanted to make a bigger impact and with the confidence I gained from my time at PMI I went on and continued my education earning my bachelor's in applied management and ultimately my MBA. I navigated my way throughout the healthcare system from beside care, care coordination, to quality improvement. Wanting to be more proactive than reactive, I took a position as Senior Manager of Medicare Administration. We not only looked at how we delivered advantage plan benefits, I'm proud to say we instituted a non-traditional innovative program for our patients. Recently, I accepted a position as Director of Care Delivery Operations for Banner Health Corporate. I recognize that in order for bedside staff to offer their best care, processes and supply have to be in place. I can now play a role in making that happen and that is very exciting!
Pima Medical provided the necessary educational and support a guy - who didn't think he was college material - needed in order to have the confidence to be successful. Next step - CEO!
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I was studying to be a chef when I realized it just wasn't what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. I researched the medical field and enrolled in the Medical Assistant (MA) program at Pima Medical Institute. My instructors saw I was eager to learn and pushed me to do my best. My externship at William Beaumont Army Medical Hospital ended up being one of the best experiences of my life. I obtained a wealth of experiences working in the ER and trauma bay. During my last week, the master sergeant and staff surprised me by awarding me a Challenge Coin (the first one given to a student) for all my hard work and dedication. It was such an honor!
Since graduating from my 9-month MA program, I have had a ton of great experiences. My first job was with a podiatrist where I assisted with minor surgeries and general foot care. I later worked for a rheumatologist where I became the head MA. I spent time working in dermatology, as a traveling MA and later for a pediatric GI doctor. Throughout this whole time, I'd had my application in with the federal government and recently obtained a position as a Clinical Certified Medical Assistant working with the Customs Border Patrol Medical Unit at the Port of Entry. We treat immigrants, detainees and our own officers. We make sure they get medications and assist in everything from wound care to labor and delivery.
I love the medical field and I love to learn. I am considering continuing my education to become an RN, nurse practitioner or flight paramedic. I'm so grateful I chose Pima Medical and found my place in the medical field!
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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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While initially interested in Dental Hygiene (DH), at age 18, I chose to pursue Dental Assisting (DA) instead, partly because I was hesitant to commit to a university four-year DH program. Later, as I learned about Pima Medical Institute's two-year DH program, my research told me it was highly reputable and very challenging. This both intrigued me and motivated me and I enrolled.
During my third semester an unexpected pregnancy brought huge challenges. My baby son was diagnosed with gastroschisis, a high-risk condition requiring frequent medical visits and a 54-day stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Despite the challenges of being a new mother and the emotional strain of the situation, I remained determined to succeed in my studies. I studied and completed assignments while at the NICU, my son serving as my inspiration. He was a reminder of my strength and my determination to never give up on my dreams. My DA employer had been supportive and excited about my becoming a Dental Hygienist and invited me to join their team as a DH upon obtaining my license.
I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of my instructors at Pima Medical for their unwavering support during my journey, especially as I navigated the challenges of my son's condition. Each instructor was incredibly helpful and supportive, always striving for my success. I am confident in the quality of education I received and would enthusiastically recommend it to others. While the program is rigorous, it is definitely achievable-I am living proof of that!
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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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My story is a bit unique in the way I came to Pima Medical Institute. I was in the Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at Brightwood College in 2018 when it suddenly closed its doors. Pima Medical was willing to take those displaced students, so without other options I decided to give it a go. Since Pima Medical didn't have a CNA program, I chose their Medical Assistant (MA) program.
My experience at Pima Medical was exceptional! I had great instructors and I felt like I got a fantastic education. One specific thing I really appreciated about the curriculum was that we were able to learn all different aspects of the roles of our profession. For example, although I've never worked as a front office MA, I was able to learn those roles and understand their responsibilities as well.
Two days after finishing my program, I was on a plane moving to Colorado. I began applying for jobs as soon as I got settled and had no trouble finding a position. I was hired as an MA at Pueblo Community Health Center where I will soon be celebrating five years. Currently, I am also completing prerequisites so I can go back to school to achieve my dream of becoming an RN.
Pima Medical Institute has great programs and amazing instructors! I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting a career in the medical field. If their location here in Colorado offered an RN program, I would already be signed up. I appreciate everything all of my instructors did for me and I wouldn't be where I am without them.
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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.
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I had an amazing experience in the Medical Assistant (MA) program at Pima Medical Institute. I had the best instructors and, as we spent time studying together, my classmates became amazing friends. I had always known I wanted to be in a profession where I could help people and I wanted to work with children. My older sister had completed the Veterinary Technician (VT) program at Pima Medical, so I knew it was a school I could trust and enrolled in the MA program.
I appreciated all the knowledge and information they gave us about working in the real world. The hands-on experience helped us feel prepared for our new career. Since graduating in 2018 I have worked for three clinics or organizations as an MA and have gained experience in family practice, OB/GYN and specialty clinics and have learned so much!
I love my job! Every day is different and I am constantly learning new things. I am so very grateful for my instructors at Pima Medical for helping me to be able to achieve my dream job. I love what I do and I am so grateful I took the leap to enroll in the Medical Assistant (MA) program.
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