After nearly a decade in retail, this Pima Medical graduate finally decided to pursue a career in the medical field. Jackie Cooper graduated from our Mesa campus’ Pharmacy Technician program and now has a career she loves. Here is her story.
“I was a high school dropout. My husband and I had a baby, we held random jobs, and we struggled. After working in retail for 10 years in the exact same position, I realized I needed to make a change. I chose to go into the medical field because it is a growing field with many opportunities. I had heard about Pima Medical Institute and its great reputation, so I began researching programs offered and enrolled in the Pharmacy Technician program.
I rarely showed up for class in high school, but I knew I had to make school my priority now. What I found is that the instructors at Pima Medical make it so interesting; you want to come to class. There is so much passion in that place. They love their students, you can feel it, and I actually enjoyed going to class each day. Not only that, but once I got into the program, I realized it is about way more than counting pills or processing insurance. The program is about helping people, and that is what I enjoy doing! When I process medications, I know I am helping someone’s grandma or baby sister get better. I just love my job!
I ended up being assigned to a major hospital for my clinical experience, and only eight days into my externship, I was offered a part-time job. A month later, I was offered a full-time position. I am currently working for Dignity Health and one day I hope to continue my education in the medical field, but for now, I absolutely love what I am doing!”
Are you searching for a meaningful career? Get started at Pima Medical now.
