Welcome Home Alumni
We are glad that you are back. At Pima Medical Institute we care about our graduates and we measure our success by their success. Did you know PMI has over 68,000 alumni? We want to help you stay connected with us, link you with employers and job opportunities, assist you in connecting with past students, and continue teaching you the skills you need in today’s market through our career services.
Success Stories
Amanda
Denver - Veterinary Assistant
2008
Prior to coming to PMI, I was in a car accident which left me with chronic migraines and nerve damage in my arm. This forced me to drop the major I was pursuing. My second love was animals, so I began the Veterinary Assistant program with my instructor, Roberta (Bobbie) Hemlock. She taught me everything I needed to be successful. There were times I could not fully use my arm, but Bobbie did not let that stop my education. I also struggled with learning disabilities but he people at PMI helped me in every way possible to continue my education.
I obtained a job at a wonderful animal hospital with 7 veterinarians and a very fast paced environment. In less than one year I was promoted to a Team Leader position. I had a great experience at Pima Medical Institute! Thanks PMI!
Stephanie
Chula Vista - Respiratory Therapy
2010
I enrolled in a four year university and ended up quitting during the first semester. That was the lowest point in my life. I felt like I had let everyone down. I came to PMI because I saw how much success my father had after he completed his program. I wanted to gain my family’s respect back. After a rough start, I found my stride at PMI. I loved the externships which provided opportunities to meet people in my profession and to begin forming networks. In my case, I ended up with so many references; they won’t fit on one page! When I learned I’d passed my first certification test, I couldn’t stop the tears from streaming down my face. It was such a relief because there were so many hearts counting on me and I couldn’t imagine breaking them again. On the same day I passed my second certification test, a phone call came from Cheyenne, WY. A hospital there wanted to fly me out, pay for my hotel, rental car, and food for three days so that they could interview me! I was shocked! But, I happily boarded the plane only a few days later. I came home with a rock solid job offer and a sign-on bonus!
Ashley
Albuquerque - Radiography/BSRS Online
2010
I was a 19 year old single mother; barely getting by, when I entered the Radiography program here at PMI. The program was extremely demanding and very challenging, but it needed to be that way and I learned so much. The externships were wonderful; I was exposed to many healthcare environments. Befor read moreI was a 19 year old single mother; barely getting by, when I entered the Radiography program here at PMI. The program was extremely demanding and very challenging, but it needed to be that way and I learned so much. The externships were wonderful; I was exposed to many healthcare environments. Before I even finished the 2 year program I was hired as a Student Technologist at a hospital in town. Upon graduation, I was hired on full-time as a Diagnostic Imaging Technician. For the past three years, I have been working steadily in a career I love. I’m even a volunteer in my professional organization.
Recently, PMI provided the opportunity for me to continue working and still complete my Bachelor of Science degree online. I can truly say PMI has changed my life! Now my family and I are doing better than ever and we’re buying our dream home together. It was a really smart decision to enroll in such a great program with wonderful instructors and I am glad I did it!
Edwin
Colorado Springs - Dental Assistant
2010
I am a single father of four children. I came to Pima Medical Institute looking for a way to support my children and to do something that I could be proud of. I decided I wanted a career in the dental field, so I signed up for PMI’s Dental Assistant program. While enrolled in the program, I held read moreI am a single father of four children. I came to Pima Medical Institute looking for a way to support my children and to do something that I could be proud of. I decided I wanted a career in the dental field, so I signed up for PMI’s Dental Assistant program. While enrolled in the program, I held down a job, took care of my four children by myself, and maintained a 4.0 GPA. I did my externship at Longo and Associates General Dentistry. I am 40 years old and when I came to PMI, I was missing one of my front teeth. Dr. Longo gave me two gifts; a new front tooth and a job.
I was told I was hired because of my skills, a strong work ethic and my kindness to patients and fellow employees. I am just about to celebrate my first anniversary at the Dr. Longo’s dental office and I am proud to be able to support my children and to have a career that makes me feel proud. I am so thankful to Pima Medical Institute for helping me to achieve both my career and family goals. It’s changed my life!
Read More Success Stories
Amanda
Denver
Veterinary Assistant
2008
Prior to coming to PMI, I was in a car accident which left me with chronic migraines and nerve damage in my arm. This forced me to drop the major I was pursuing. My second love was animals, so I began the Veterinary Assistant program with my instructor, Roberta (Bobbie) Hemlock. She taught me everything I needed to be successful. There were times I could not fully use my arm, but Bobbie did not let that stop my education. I also struggled with learning disabilities but he people at PMI helped me in every way possible to continue my education.
I obtained a job at a wonderful animal hospital with 7 veterinarians and a very fast paced environment. In less than one year I was promoted to a Team Leader position. I had a great experience at Pima Medical Institute! Thanks PMI!
Stephanie
Chula Vista
Respiratory Therapy
2010
I enrolled in a four year university and ended up quitting during the first semester. That was the lowest point in my life. I felt like I had let everyone down. I came to PMI because I saw how much success my father had after he completed his program. I wanted to gain my family’s respect back. After a rough start, I found my stride at PMI. I loved the externships which provided opportunities to meet people in my profession and to begin forming networks. In my case, I ended up with so many references; they won’t fit on one page! When I learned I’d passed my first certification test, I couldn’t stop the tears from streaming down my face. It was such a relief because there were so many hearts counting on me and I couldn’t imagine breaking them again. On the same day I passed my second certification test, a phone call came from Cheyenne, WY. A hospital there wanted to fly me out, pay for my hotel, rental car, and food for three days so that they could interview me! I was shocked! But, I happily boarded the plane only a few days later. I came home with a rock solid job offer and a sign-on bonus!
Lorissa
Tucson
Dental Assistant
2009
I quit high school early and then sat around wasting precious years. One day as I watched a PMI commercial on TV, I started thinking about my mother who’d attended the Dental Assistant program at PMI back in 1997. Since graduating, she had always had a stable job in the medical field. I decided to read moreI quit high school early and then sat around wasting precious years. One day as I watched a PMI commercial on TV, I started thinking about my mother who’d attended the Dental Assistant program at PMI back in 1997. Since graduating, she had always had a stable job in the medical field. I decided to g read moreI quit high school early and then sat around wasting precious years. One day as I watched a PMI commercial on TV, I started thinking about my mother who’d attended the Dental Assistant program at PMI back in 1997. Since graduating, she had always had a stable job in the medical field. I decided to give it a try and I haven’t looked back since. I signed up and attended orientation that same week. I was offered a job at the place where I served my externship before I’d even attended my graduation! I’ve since moved to Virginia and was able to pick right back up in a Dental Assisting job with ease because of my experience and skills learned at Pima Medical Institute. As I’ve assisted different dentists, I’ve always felt like I knew what I was doing thanks to the great education I received at PMI.
Ashley
Albuquerque
Radiography/BSRS Online
2010
I was a 19 year old single mother; barely getting by, when I entered the Radiography program here at PMI. The program was extremely demanding and very challenging, but it needed to be that way and I learned so much. The externships were wonderful; I was exposed to many healthcare environments. Befor read moreI was a 19 year old single mother; barely getting by, when I entered the Radiography program here at PMI. The program was extremely demanding and very challenging, but it needed to be that way and I learned so much. The externships were wonderful; I was exposed to many healthcare environments. Before I even finished the 2 year program I was hired as a Student Technologist at a hospital in town. Upon graduation, I was hired on full-time as a Diagnostic Imaging Technician. For the past three years, I have been working steadily in a career I love. I’m even a volunteer in my professional organization.
Recently, PMI provided the opportunity for me to continue working and still complete my Bachelor of Science degree online. I can truly say PMI has changed my life! Now my family and I are doing better than ever and we’re buying our dream home together. It was a really smart decision to enroll in such a great program with wonderful instructors and I am glad I did it!
Sean
Chula Vista
Respiratory Therapy
2010
After working several years in the electronics field, I thought it was time for a change. During a family emergency, I was exposed to the Respiratory Therapy field and I decided I would make a career change. I chose Pima Medical Institute because of the reputation of their program director in the San Diego respiratory community. With the encouragement and patience of my instructors, both didactic and clinical, I successfully completed my program.
After graduation, I moved to Lubbock, Texas where I am working as a Respiratory Therapist at University Medical Center Health System Hospital. Everyone I work with, from fellow therapists to physicians, has complimented me on my patient care skills and my knowledge of my new profession. I wouldn't be where I am today without PIMA or my family.
Clayton
Seattle
Medical Assistant/ HCA
2011
When I graduated from high school I didn’t have a clue what I wanted to do with my future. After I had been working for a while, a friend told me about Pima Medical Institute. I attended an information session and decided that I was interested in pursuing a degree as a Medical Assistant. The decision required some sacrifices on my part, since I lived seventy miles away from the Seattle campus. I worked part-time jobs while going to school just to cover the cost of gas for the commute. However, all the sacrifices were worth it when my externship site offered me a job at the completion of my program.
PMI not only taught me the skills I needed to become a healthcare professional, but I also grew personally due to the relationships I formed with my instructors and classmates. As a result of their belief in me, I continued on and enrolled in their online Health Care Administration Program. I’ve now completed my Associate’s Degree and am working at Virginia Mason, Benaroya Research Center. PMI has shown me the way into a future full of possibilities!
Alice
Mesa
Respiratory Therapy
2008
When I came to PMI, I was a single mother with two children and was living off my son's SSI payments. I had to take the bus for an hour and half each day, due to my car being stolen. For 22 months I trudged to school through sun, rain and heat on that bus. But it did not stop me from going for what I wanted – I wanted to be a Respiratory Therapist! The teachers at PMI were always there for us when we needed them. I really appreciated how my instructor, Cynthia, took me under her wing and made sure that I succeeded. When I graduated, I was unsure I was going to make it as a therapist. But, with the encouragement of my PMI classmates and my kids pushing me to succeed, I found a job at the hospital in Prescott, AZ. I am a proud Respiratory Therapist and I wouldn't be here without Pima Medical Institute. Thanks PMI!
Edwin
Colorado Springs
Dental Assistant
2010
I am a single father of four children. I came to Pima Medical Institute looking for a way to support my children and to do something that I could be proud of. I decided I wanted a career in the dental field, so I signed up for PMI’s Dental Assistant program. While enrolled in the program, I held read moreI am a single father of four children. I came to Pima Medical Institute looking for a way to support my children and to do something that I could be proud of. I decided I wanted a career in the dental field, so I signed up for PMI’s Dental Assistant program. While enrolled in the program, I held down a job, took care of my four children by myself, and maintained a 4.0 GPA. I did my externship at Longo and Associates General Dentistry. I am 40 years old and when I came to PMI, I was missing one of my front teeth. Dr. Longo gave me two gifts; a new front tooth and a job.
I was told I was hired because of my skills, a strong work ethic and my kindness to patients and fellow employees. I am just about to celebrate my first anniversary at the Dr. Longo’s dental office and I am proud to be able to support my children and to have a career that makes me feel proud. I am so thankful to Pima Medical Institute for helping me to achieve both my career and family goals. It’s changed my life!
Amber
Mesa
Radiography
2007
I was a 20 year old read moreI was a 20 year old single mother of two; barely scraping by, when I decided to go to Pima's Mesa campus for an Associates Degree in Radiography. The teachers were wonderful and caring. I was using every kind of government assistance I could to get through school and my teachers informed me about some additional help through Pima. They have a food bank and even did a toy drive to help their students for Christmas. They never failed to help me when I needed it. I graduated in 2007 and got a job immediately in my chosen field. Since then, I have been able to make my way in the world and raise my children on my own. Pima Medical Institute completely changed my life and I will be forever grateful.
RIchard
Tucson
Radiography
2011
I was a mechanic for 25 years, but I reached a point in my life where I wanted more. I was terrified at the thought of returning to school and making a career change at age 43. But my wife, Lizette, began encouraging me to go to PMI. She had completed the Dental Assisting program right out of high school and, 22 years later, she still LOVED her job!
I had a difficult time imagining how we could make it financially while I went back to school. But, my wife insisted we could do it and it was time to make my dreams come true! I went for a consultation at PMI, passed my math test, and they accepted me into the Radiography Program. The PMI staff and financial aid department both made me feel like no matter what my age; I could chase and achieve my dream. The day I walked out to my car to announce to my waiting family that I’d been accepted into the program, my kids cheered and my wife cried!
It was a difficult 2 years, but my wife never stopped supporting me and encouraging me and neither did the incredible instructors. I graduated with honors in 2011 and was hired full-time by one of my externship sites. I’m thankful to Pima Medical Institute for giving me and my wife the chance to make our dreams come true! Thank you for giving us careers we both love!
Warlyn
Las Vegas
Medical Assistant
2011
The first time I stepped in the door of Pima, I knew that this was my school. On the lobby wall I read an Alumni Success Story Poster about an immigrant like me who graduated from PMI. I was moved by his story and thought, “I, too, will excel and be remarkable!” Those first weeks were rough. I remember those days before my stipend, when I counted the remaining quarters in my wallet to get on the bus to school.
My instructors were my mentors and I owe them what I have become today. During my externship, I gained so much wisdom and working in pediatrics intensified my desire to work in the health care field. It has become, not only my training ground, but my launching pad for a much greater passion for patient care.
I have so much to be grateful for thanks to Pima. These four walls have become my second home. Pima has helped make me and empowered me.
Chandra
Albuquerque
Radiography
0
I wanted a profession that was rewarding and could be achieved relatively quickly. The Radiography program at PMI was a perfect choice. My instructors really cared about my success and gave me the necessary tools to feel confident in the work force. Since graduating, I have been able to enjoy the flexibility the field of Radiography offers; moving from a staff radiographer up through the ranks to a CT supervisor. Currently, I am the Supervisor of Forensic Imaging - Radiology, at the Office of the Medical Investigator in New Mexico. I perform radiographs, CT scans, and soon, MRIs on decedents. I have the honor of working with leaders in the field of Forensic Sciences. I ensure that image integrity is maintained for a three year grant funded by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ); studying the utility of postmortem CT. I train the Morphology Department to perform Radiographs while utilizing safe radiation practices. I am working toward my QM registry and am enrolled in the Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging program. I would not be where I am today without the education I received at PMI. Thank you, PMI, for my career!
