I was an EMT for 10 years in Pinal County, but I always wanted to become a Paramedic. I was waiting for the right time and the right program. I found out about Pima Medical Institute's Paramedic program through my work. We have a partnership with PMI, so their classes fit with our shift schedules and allow us to work full-time and go to school. It's a grueling schedule, but it's doable. Typically, I would work a 24-hour work shift, then go directly to an 8-hour class, and then repeat that process.
The instructors were fantastic! They have experience in the field and offer a wealth of information.
I was able to meet and become friends with some great people in my classes. The program was challenging but, honestly, the most difficult piece for me was time management. Making time for class and my clinical hours on top of being a father to three children and my job, where I'm also an instructor, was the toughest part.
The company I currently work for has a spot for me as soon as I pass my boards. In fact, they are chomping at the bit to move me from an EMT to a Paramedic, which happens to come with a significant pay raise. PMI has a great Paramedic program, and I would certainly recommend it to others, especially other seasoned EMTs like me.
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Angela Lee is a two-time graduate of Pima Medical Institute. After earning her associate degree in respiratory therapy from our Mesa campus, she went on to earn her bachelor's degree in respiratory therapy through our 100% online program.
Q: How did you learn about Pima Medical Institute?
A: My youngest daughter attended Pima Medical Institute a couple of years before I did. When life circumstances required a second career path I knew Pima Medical Institute was the place to go.
Q: What was your experience like as a student in the Phlebotomy and Veterinary programs?
A: My son and I enrolled in the respiratory program together! Being healthcare students during COVID was difficult, as everyone was learning to navigate new systems and protocols.I also experienced a divorce and moved my family during the program. It was definitely overwhelming at times!
Q: What would you say is one specific thing you appreciated about your education at Pima Medical Institute?
A: The instructors relayed years of experience and skill that translated to the real world. The program director especially. When I thought I wanted to give up or quit, she constantly assured me it would be worth it, and she was right!
After finishing my associate degree, I earned my Bachelor's through Pima Medical Institute. Because it was online, I could keep working while going to school. After Pima Medical, I earned a Master's degree in Healthcare Law in May 2025 at another institution. I still work as a travel therapist and have been privileged to work at some of the most prestigious children's hospitals in the country! And I get to visit great places while I'm working!
Q: Would you recommend Pima Medical Institute? Why?
A: I always recommend Pima Medical Institute; in fact, I convinced my new fiances two grown sons to enroll in the respiratory program at Pima Medical. It has changed my life for the better; how could I keep that kind of success a secret?
Pima Medical provides an incredible opportunity for anyone, at any stage in their journey, to get the education they need.
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I had worked in a totally different industry for 15 years, but my wife always encouraged me to get into health care. When I discovered that in two years I could have a new career as a PTAI, I decided to enroll in PMI. Going to school and keeping up with all the new information while managing a family was difficult. It was an intense program, but the way they have it structured provided me with the knowledge base I needed. They set the bar really high and we rose to it.
PMI gave me the opportunity to be on the board for PTWA (Physical Therapy Association of Washington). I was chosen to be the student liaison for the state of WA. The relationships I've made through that experience have opened many doors for me. One of the vice presidents of the board suggested I look into a hospital setting for a job. That lead to my current position as a PTA at Northwest Hospital in Seattle. I work on all the floors including - ICU, special care, psych, medical floor, surgical floor, and neuro. I am able to participate in many levels of care. Being in acute care is a great opportunity. I'm very happy with my job. The sky's the limit for me! Thanks PMI!
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Growing up I had always been interested in the medical field. While caring for injured and sick loved ones I gained knowledge which led me to pursue a career as a medical professional. I had a family member who had attended Pima Medical Institute so I chose to enroll in their Medical Assistant program.
I was pretty nervous to be a student again and was concerned about whether I could handle phlebotomy or the blood draw portion of the course. But after the first time, I knew I could do it and loved it! My instructors were amazing and they even made math and anatomy easy to learn. One of my instructors made a huge impact on me. She was smart, serious and expected us to be excellent in what we did. It made me feel confident in my skills.
On the very first day of my externship at Dr. Anderson's Family Practice, I was offered a job. I love my job and get to have a wide variety of experiences. I am seriously considering continuing my education by going back to school for a nursing degree.
Pima Medical was a great experience for me. I made so many friends, and in only nine months, I walked out with a great job. I recommend Pima Medical to anyone who is interested in a career in the medical field.
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I have found a career that I love as a Medical Lab Technician!
I'd attempted to find my place in the medical field once before, attending a Dental Assistant program, but it just wasn't for me. I just didn't enjoy interacting with patients. After being a stay-at-home mom for about 10 years, I returned to Pima Medical Institute, learned they had started a Medical Lab Technician (MLT) program and knew this was the program and the career for me.
I chose Pima Medical because I knew how hands-on they were. Unfortunately, shortly after starting the program, the pandemic hit resulting in us having to go to online learning. But, our instructors worked really hard to get us into the lab in small groups to practice during COVID. During my program I found out I had a brain tumor requiring surgery. The instructors were very helpful and supportive during my treatment and I was able to continue my program.
I am a veteran so I did my clinicals at the VA Hospital in Cheyenne, WY. It was challenging staying in Cheyenne during the week and driving back for week-ends, but I did it! I landed an MLT job at Centura Health's Penrose Hospital shortly after graduation and I love it! There is no typical day; every day is different and I learn something new almost every day. I plan to do this job until I can't do it anymore. I am preparing to start my bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science. This will set me up to get my MLS certification, providing a pay increase and an opportunity for a lead position. I would definitely recommend Pima Medical's MLT program. If you like solving puzzles, this is a great career for you!
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After several years of working as a LIMITED scope radiologic technologist for my orthopedic group, it was time to figure out a way to make the transition into a FULL scope radiologic technologist. I knew the doctors were planning on expanding our practice, including opening an MRI center, and I wanted to be qualified to be part of the growth. I needed a program that would allow me to continue working while attending school and also provide the education I would need to become fully certified and earn my MRI certification. That's why I chose Pima Medical Institute's online advanced placement radiography (now called RAD Bridge) program.
My experience in the program was great. The admissions department did a great job detailing the highlights of the program and the financial aid office thoroughly explained the cost. I felt supported by everyone during the didactic portion of the program, all the way through my externship, and even after graduation. One thing I appreciated about the program was that the material is so relevant to what you see out in the field. I can't think of anything we learned where I thought, "I'm never going to need to know this."
Since graduating, I've spent the last seven years working as an MRI technologist. I had such a positive experience and outcome with the first Pima Medical program, I enrolled in the Bachelor's in Radiologic Sciences program and just finished last year. I would certainly recommend Pima Medical to others. These programs can help you advance and take advantage of opportunities while you are working at your job.
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After my children's father and I split, I was faced with the choice of doing nothing or pursuing my dreams. I chose the latter. Warren Village, a transitional housing for single moms, became my new home. I told my family advocate there that I was passionate about animals and wanted a career in veterinary. They helped me formulate a plan, including the Veterinary Assistant (VA) program at Pima Medical Institute. I began the VA program during the pandemic, juggling my studies with the chaos of three kids at home, but I knew it was the perfect fit for me. It felt like family and the instructors were very understanding. Upon finishing, I knew I wanted more and enrolled in the Veterinary Technician (VT) program. I absolutely loved the hands-on clinicals; assisting in surgery or drawing blood from a horse was amazing! At my VT graduation I was shocked and proud to win the prestigious Richard Luebke Award.
During our VT program a graduate from the Bachelor of Science in Health Administration program (BSHCA) spoke to us. This mom said if she hadn't completed the bachelor's degree program, she wouldn't be able to take care of her kids like she can now. A light bulb went off and I felt like she was speaking to me. Six days after graduating with my VT associate degree, I started the online BSHCA program. I am enjoying working at Montclair Animal Clinic, my former externship site. Prior to schooling, I worked in retail management, so I would love to use my education and manage in an animal setting. I am also dreaming about getting my masters and someday opening an animal sanctuary.
I followed my passion and I did this for my kids. I have a new career and I will have gotten my certificate, associate and bachelor's in four years. Pima Medical was my beacon of hope, offering flexibility, understanding and a brighter future.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in cultural anthropology, I struggled to find a job and ended up in finance. When COVID hit, my new job offer was rescinded and I was forced to take a job at a grocery store bakery, far from my career goals. I kept hearing advertisements for Pima Medical Institute which piqued my interest in the medical field. This led me to enroll in their three-month Phlebotomy program, allowing me to work and study simultaneously with minimal school commitment. It was a way to dip-my-toe into the water of the medical field.
The Phlebotomy program was a turning point in my life. Small classes, hands-on experience, and an excellent instructor, Miss Denise, made a significant impact. I soon secured a position at Chandler Regional Hospital, where I interacted with various departments and realized my passion for patient care. Nursing stood out as the most versatile and impactful role, prompting me to pursue a nursing degree at the institute I trusted and I enrolled at Pima Medical's Mesa Campus. The Nursing program was challenging and intense, pushing me to grow and become accountable for patient care. Through diverse clinical experiences, I gravitated towards ER and ICU settings. I've recently accepted a position at OBS Banner Dessert, aiming to transfer to the ICU and eventually join the trauma team.
I am immensely grateful for my education at Pima Medical. The Phlebotomy program provided a crucial foundation, giving me the framework I needed for a career in the medical field. I invited Miss Denise to my nursing pinning ceremony and my dad told her COVID had been difficult for me and she had saved my life. He was right, Pima Medical Institute truly changed my life.
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I have always had an interest in the medical field, but had no idea where to begin. My brother went to Pima Medical Institute for the Veterinary Technician program, which led me to look into the school. After my first tour, I knew it was the place for me and I enrolled in the Medical Assistant (MA) program.
My student experience was amazing! I had fantastic instructors and got so much hands-on experience in such a short amount of time. At first, it was difficult to balance full-time school while working, but I loved what I was learning so much that putting in the work was something I was more than willing to do. I loved getting to practice my hands-on skills with my classmates. Doing things like injections and blood draws on real people truly prepares you for real patients.
I graduated from Pima Medical with a 4.0 GPA, and as soon as I started to apply for jobs, the offers were rolling in! I ultimately chose to work at University of Washington Medical Center because it seemed like the best opportunity for me, and it definitely has been. Since graduating, I have been working at UW for the last year. I have learned so much and have never been more confident in a job.
Getting my education at Pima Medical Institute was truly one of the best decisions I have ever made. It prepared me so much for my future and made stepping into a new role a piece of cake. I would highly recommend Pima Medical to others seeking to change their lives.
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After 25 years in restaurant management, I always knew I wanted to go back to school, but life kept getting in the way. In 2017, everything changed when I got very sick and ended up in the hospital for 10 days. One nurse, an older, highly skilled woman, was so inspiring that I thought, "If she can do this, so can I." Though I didn't want to be a nurse, I knew my management background could help me run a medical office. However, when I tried applying for receptionist jobs, I kept hearing the same thing-I needed medical experience.
That's when I decided to take a leap and enroll in Pima Medical Institute's Medical Assistant (MA) program. The nine-month program gave me the education I needed to get my foot in the door. It wasn't easy-after being out of school for 20 years, I had to relearn how to study and manage my time. But thanks to Pima Medical's support system and my fellow students, I got through it.
I landed my first job as an MA through my externship at Pima Heart. I soon enrolled in the online Health Care Administration (HCA) program, while moving up in my job and then continued into the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration (BSHCA) program. Upon completion, I applied to administrative positions and was humbled to have 15 interviews scheduled. After considering numerous job opportunities, I chose to join Banner Health as a Practice Manager, overseeing a staff of 20 (with eight providers and 40 residents).
Pima Medical provided the education I needed to excel in the medical field. My instructors were there for me every step of the way. If you're considering going back to school, just do it! Choose Pima Medical and you will get the support you need.
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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.
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Q: How did you learn about Pima Medical Institute?
A: I started out as a 20-year-old looking for a job that could get me out of being a waitress. I found Pima Medical Institute and was very interested in the pharmacy technician program. I started the program in 2010 and graduated in 2011. I was a pharmacy technician from 2011 to 2022. In 2019, I decided to go for my bachelor's degree in health care administration. From then I found a position in 2022 as a product manager/business analyst and continue to be a certified pharmacy technician. The bachelor's degree program helped me in my current career and it also helped me pursue my master's degree in information systems at the University of Denver.
Q: What was your experience like as a student in the Pharmacy Technician and Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration programs?
A: When I was a student in the pharmacy technician program at Pima Medical Institute, I was on campus and it was a great experience. Overall, I was able to socialize with those who were also interested in being a pharmacy technician. It was very nice to be in the classroom and have hands-on experience during that time. When I decided to go for my bachelor's degree, I was online full-time and it had everything that I needed to pursue my degree. It was a great experience as well because I was able to still manage my full-time job and also gain the experience I needed to pursue another position as a product manager/business analyst in 2022.
Q: What would you say is one specific thing you appreciated about your education at Pima Medical Institute?
A: One thing I would say that I appreciated about the education at Pima Medical Institute was how it prepared me for my pharmacy technician experience. I really liked the fact that I had an externship for it so that I could get hands-on experience and get into the field easily. I believe that Pima Medical Institute paved the way for my path to where I'm at today.
Q: Would you recommend Pima Medical Institute? Why?
A: I would recommend Pima Medical Institute to others because it started my career and it has developed me into what I am today. I was young, as a 20-year-old, not knowing what to do or where to go because I thought I was not able to be successful or be able to pay for an education, but when I found Pima Medical Institute, that is what helped me to be more successful. As I gathered more experience as a pharmacy technician, I was able to find ways to pursue my education even further. This got me to where I am today as a product manager with a master's degree in information systems with a specialty in business intelligence.
If I had not attended Pima Medical Institute, I do not believe I would be where I am today, because they gave me the tools I needed to succeed. I was able to be very successful in the pharmacy field. My 12 years of experience and dedication really helped me to earn the role I have today as a product manager in the pharmacy automation field.
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