Dallas Scott is a graduate of our Albuquerque campus’ Respiratory Therapy associate degree program. He credits perseverance and support from faculty and staff for his success in the program, and now his career. Here’s his story.
How did you learn about Pima Medical Institute?
I was at a junction in my life where I needed an education in a field that would better support my family. I had already relocated to Albuquerque and saw an ad for the school. After speaking with a counselor and doing a little research, I decided on Respiratory Care.
What was your experience like as a student in your program(s)?
I faced several significant obstacles, including a messy divorce and a two-year child custody battle. I worked full time; woke up at 3 a.m., started work at 4 a.m., worked until noon, ate lunch, changed into my scrubs, then went to school from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. I worked hard and carried a 3.78 GPA and graduated Cum Laude. I was class president for both years and won several awards, including the Cory Sufrin Memorial Scholarship, a statewide award established by the New Mexico Society for Respiratory Care (NMSRC) to support students pursuing careers in respiratory therapy.
What would you say is one specific thing you appreciated about your education at Pima Medical Institute?
I had excellent instructors who nurtured and guided me and ensured I had everything I needed to be successful; I am still friends with many to this day. At the time I was the poster child of success with Pima Medical Institute. I was fortunate enough to be on the New Mexico Board of RT licensing (while still a student) and had made many connections. I had two local hospitals competing for my application as I was preparing to graduate. I took my RRT exams immediately following my graduation in mid-December and received my RRT certificate in early January.
Would you recommend Pima Medical Institute? Why?
Pima Medical Institute is the single best decision I ever made. In the beginning, I had thought about going to a career school over a major university, but I found that I received a superior experience and a fast-track timeline that put me in line for a rewarding and well-paid career at half the time of those going through a larger program in a bigger school.
I’ve worked and traveled throughout the Northwest, and have had a very successful career working in almost every aspect of Respiratory Care. I settled into Sleep Medicine and now work from home educating patients on their respiratory equipment via telemedicine.
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!
