Christian Baglien graduated from the Pharmacy Technician Program at our Mesa Campus in 2019. He is now more than seven years into the profession and says this is a career he loves.
How did you learn about Pima Medical Institute?
I originally wanted to get into an EMT and Paramedic program, but it was suggested that I explore either the Pharmacy Technician or Medical Assistant program first for a better understanding of the medical field. I’m so glad I chose the Pharmacy Technician program.
What was your experience like as a student in your program(s)?
My experience was amazing; it was such an eye-opener on how extensive pharmacy truly is. All of the faculty and staff were super welcoming, and they truly cared about us, not just our education but us as people. I was in a car accident that totaled my car, faced several medical issues, and was let go of my warehouse job while in my program. Through it all, everyone always helped me access the resources and support that I needed.
What would you say is one specific thing you appreciated about your education at Pima Medical Institute?
One thing that I appreciated beyond belief was the amount of detail we would learn about each subject. From learning about every single bone in our body in the intro classes to learning about the pharmacological sciences of different drugs. It more than prepared me for my profession; it helped me excel in it. I got my first pharmacy job at CVS while still attending Pima Medical Institute.
Would you recommend Pima Medical Institute? Why?
A million times over, yes. I received a tremendous amount of help from the faculty and staff with resources, education, and career planning that set me up to earn a six-figure income, which I never thought I would ever be able to do.
Since graduation, I worked in various roles with CVS for about four years in two different states. First as a pharmacy technician, then as an inventory specialist. I moved to Minnesota and worked on COVID testing at several locations contracted with CVS. I finished my career there as one of the first pharmacy technicians with the specialization to administer COVID immunizations in Minnesota. After CVS, I transitioned into an Inpatient pharmacy technician role at M Health Fairview, a company based in Minnesota. I’ve been here for five years now, and I love it. I work the overnight role with a schedule of 9 p.m.- 7 a.m., and I work seven days straight. I get seven days off after, so the work-life balance is truly amazing. I make IV medications for Pediatric and adult patients, fill refill requests, and assist in Code Blues.
I wouldn’t be where I am in my life without Pima Medical Institute.
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!
