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!
|
After retiring from the military in 2007 and working ten years as a corrections officer in a supermax prison, I decided it was time for something new. In 2019, I used my military education benefits to enroll in Pima Medical Institute's Phlebotomy program (PHL). That led to Medical Assistant (MA), then Health Care Administration (HCA) and finally Veterinary Assistant (VTA). I also enrolled in Respiratory Therapy (RT) for a short time, but I realized it was not the right fit. In total, I completed four programs at Pima Medical.
The reason I kept coming back was simple: the people. There's a real sense of community here. When I finished my last program, I felt like something was missing. I applied for a position on campus, not expecting much, but the team saw potential in me and offered me a role in financial aid. At first, I thought I wasn't qualified. They told me they could teach the technical side, but what they really needed was someone who could connect with students. That gave me the confidence to accept the job.
I came here to learn, and I ended up staying to serve. Now I get to work with students every day, and I always try to check in with the ones who stand out. I let them know they're not alone, that someone here is rooting for them. It's not just about numbers or forms. It is about connection.
Math used to be something I wasn't crazy about, but now I use it every day and even enjoy it. Back when I started the Phlebotomy program, I would have laughed if you told me I would be in business attire, in an office, helping students plan their futures. This job changed my perspective. I come in each day not just to work, but to make a difference.
I tell my boss all the time: if it is not here, it is not anywhere. Pima Medical isn't just where I studied - It's where I belong.
|
I worked in home health care for many years but when I moved to Colorado my license wasn't recognized, so I enrolled in Pima Medical Institute's Medical Assistant (MA) program. When I started my classes, I began to doubt my decision because everyone looked so young and I thought I might be too old to learn. But my instructor encouraged me and really helped me believe in myself. Both the classroom and externship experience prepared me for my profession. I was hired as a traveling MA. I went with a doctor to nursing homes, rehab centers and assisted living facilities and I loved it! Later, I was offered a job at the same place where I had completed my externship. Today I am working as an MA 2 for Centura Health in their OB/GYN department where I am a preceptor. I also serve on Centura's Diversity, Equality and Inclusion board.
Since my goal is to move into management and even eventually run my own clinic, I completed Pima Medical's Health Care Administration (HCA) online program. At first I was nervous about how to manage working full time while going to school. But, when other students further along in the program shared their strategies, I was able to set up a system that worked for me. I enjoyed my classes and they helped me see the other side of management. I recently started the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration (BSHCA) program and who knows, I might just keep going on to a master's.
I recommend Pima Medical to everyone! They care and go above and beyond to help their students. I wouldn't be where I am today without them.
|
In 2009, I decided to change careers at 38 years old. I decided on the Radiography program at PMI's Las Vegas campus because I loved that the field is always evolving and Pima had a great reputation. I graduated with Honors in 2011 with an associate degree in Occupational Radiologic Science.
Just a month after I graduated, I was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. My new career was put on hold while I immediately had several surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation. Although this changed my plans a little I was determined to continue my education and get a BS in Radiologic Sciences. It was very challenging for me since I was having to deal with health issues and cognitive effects of my treatments, but I was very motivated.
In 2013 I completed my BSRS and graduated with a 4.0 GPA. I love the career I chose! It enables me to help others and to also continue pushing myself to learn every day. My disease makes it difficult for me to work full time but I still work in surgery a few days a month. I now spend most of my time advocating for other lung cancer patients, lobbying on Capitol Hill, and running a support group, but I'm so proud that I made the decision to advanced my education. It has been life-changing.
|
My father is the Respiratory Therapy program director at PMI's Las Vegas campus and I heard about the program through him. After completing my application, I was awarded the Founder's Scholarship and was able to complete my BSRT all online while working full-time. My father always told me, "You can never be too smart!" so I didn't stop with my bachelor's.
I have recently completed my master's degree in Bioethics, with a concentration in end of life issues. I completed the program and was awarded my degree from The Alden March Bioethics Institute (AMBI) of Albany Medical College. Albany Medical College is one of America's oldest medical colleges, established in 1839 by Alden March. I was able to transfer all my credits from my undergraduate programs at Pima Medical Institute and The State University of New York. Getting my master's has been a great accomplishment for me! I am proud to be a PMI graduate and thankful for the generosity of the Luebke family. The BSRT I attained through PMI was truly the springboard for my graduation from Albany Medical College with my graduate degree.
My father shares my story with his students. It provides inspiration, clarity and proof of what students can do with a degree from the Pima Medical Institute RT program! Thanks PMI ... from both of us!
|
Following gallbladder surgery, I remember a woman coming in every five minutes and telling me, "I need you to breathe, I need you to breathe." One month later I was back in the hospital having my appendix removed, and the same woman was telling me, "You need to breathe." Shortly after, I heard an advertisement on the radio for the Respiratory Therapy program at Pima Medical Institute, and I thought, "That's what that woman was - I want to do that!"
Prior to coming to Pima Medical, I had taken classes and really struggled in chemistry, but I had a wonderful chemistry instructor at Pima Medical who helped me understand and I passed with an A. The program was very fast paced but I loved it! I was the oldest person in the class and I know I probably asked too many questions, but I also rallied my fellow students to get together and study.
The process of finding a job is made simple with the help of the career services department and their commitment to sending job leads and assisting in the process. I am currently employed at a skilled nursing facility and I deal specifically with tracheostomies and breathing treatments. I love patient care and I truly believe I have found my calling. Most of the residents are there for the rest of their lives and sometimes we are the only people they see in a day.
I love the people at Pima Medical and I had an excellent learning experience.
|
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!
|
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.
|
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.
|
had just graduated from high school and was searching for a career that would allow me to help others while staying active. When I discovered Pima Medical Institute's Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program, I knew it was the perfect fit. The opportunity to complete the program in just 18 months and start my dream job immediately was exactly what I was looking for.
My experience at Pima Medical was amazing. The class schedule allowed me to balance my studies with a part-time job, which was important for supporting myself. The coursework was challenging, but my instructors were incredibly supportive and always took the time to help me understand difficult concepts. I especially appreciated how they related the material to real-world, clinical situations, making everything we learned feel more relevant and practical. The hands-on experience in our lab and during clinical rotations was invaluable. It solidified my skills and prepared me for the workforce. Right after graduation I was hired at Athletico, where I've been working ever since. I'm currently pursuing a certification in pelvic floor therapy, a field I'm very passionate about. I am looking forward to raising awareness about its importance for overall well-being.
I'm so grateful to my instructors at Pima Medical. The education I received there truly shaped me into the clinician I am today. I highly recommend Pima Medical to anyone looking to pursue a career in healthcare - it's an amazing school.
|
Starting over in a new career later in life was daunting, but my passion for healthcare pushed me forward. I initially enrolled at a local community college to complete prerequisites for a nursing program, only to face a two-year waitlist. Determined to find a quicker path into the medical field, I discovered Pima Medical Institute's Phlebotomy program. This program's accelerated timeline was perfect for my busy life as a stay-at-home mother. In less than three months I gained essential skills and secured a job in the medical field. That first step ignited my passion for healthcare, and after gaining experience as a phlebotomist and clinical lab assistant, I returned to Pima Medical for the 22-month Respiratory Therapy program.
My journey wasn't without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted my class's clinical rotations, forcing us to transition to remote learning. Balancing studies, work, and family was overwhelming, but I learned to manage my time effectively and prioritize self-care. The instructors, many of whom were industry professionals, provided valuable insights and hands-on learning experiences that prepared me for real-world healthcare settings. As a result of my education, I secured a position at Banner Desert Medical Center, where I have been employed for the past eight years. During the pandemic, I practiced respiratory care under an emergency license, which provided me with critical experience in a high-pressure environment. Currently, I am working in Procurement and have recently been promoted to Test Management Training Coordinator. In this role, I oversee the training processes for new hires, externships, and existing staff members.
I am incredibly grateful to my instructors at Pima Medical for their dedication and support. The comprehensive curriculum and hands-on training prepared me for a fulfilling career.
|
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.
|
