Nicole Cardenas is a graduate of the Albuquerque Campus Radiography associate degree program and a graduate of the online Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences (BSRS).
How did you learn about Pima Medical Institute?
I was working at a call center and was tired of being mistreated over the phone. I looked up two-year degree programs and found radiography. I’ve been obsessed with skeletons since I was a kid. I made an appointment with Pima Medical Institute, was accepted, and it changed my life!
What was your experience like as a student in your program(s)?
My experience as a student at Pima Medical Institute was exciting, nerve-racking, informative, and educational. I was a single mom with two very young boys. I also had to work, so it was hard trying to do it all. In the end, it all worked out, and I made it through with experience and gratitude.
What would you say is one specific thing you appreciated about your education at Pima Medical Institute?
I think the best thing I received from my education at Pima Medical Institute was the hands-on experience. I learn so much better by doing, rather than just reading or watching. Learning the didactic part and then going into the real world to do it, was amazing. It makes so much more sense to go and do what you just learned. I entered my first job ready, and I am still learning something new every day.
I was lucky enough to find my first job early on. I was able to do three rotations at Lovelace Medical Center in downtown Albuquerque. By my second rotation, they told me they wanted to hire me, so my final rotation was basically employee training. It was a phenomenal opportunity. I always tell students their rotation is a job interview. Be your best and do your best, and a job may come from it.
Would you recommend Pima Medical Institute? Why?
I would recommend Pima Medical Institute because it has more chances for students to experience different places. This institution provides an experience as well as an education. My education has provided opportunities I didn’t even know were possible.
I graduated in August 2017 with my associate degree and started work. In 2020, I went back to Pima Medical Institute for my bachelor’s degree, as I was set on teaching. I graduated in 2021 and became a part-time clinical instructor for the local community college for three years. I decided to do travel work in 2021. Then signed on with a travel company in 2022 and was able to go to Hawaii for six months on a job. I came home and started my work at the VA, and have been content helping the veterans. I would still enjoy a chance to teach radiography. Maybe when I retire from the government.
Do you want to share your story, or maybe you want to update us on what’s happening in your career now? Reach out, we’d love to hear from you!
