Ana (Marianna) Blair, found herself at a personal crossroads when she split with the father of her children. Making the decision to pursue her dreams and be a positive example for her family drew her to Pima Medical Institute and a career in the veterinary field. She completed her Veterinary Assistant certificate program at our Aurora campus, and followed that up by earning her associate degree in the Veterinary Technician program. She wasn’t finished there! She is now pursuing her bachelor’s degree in our 100 percent online Health Care Administration program.
Check out her inspiring story, in her own words.
“After my children’s father and I split, I was faced with the choice of doing nothing or pursuing my dreams. I chose the latter. Warren Village, a transitional housing for single moms, became my new home. I told my family advocate there that I was passionate about animals and wanted a career in veterinary. They helped me formulate a plan, including the Veterinary Assistant (VA) program at Pima Medical Institute. I began the VA program during the pandemic, juggling my studies with the chaos of three kids at home, but I knew it was the perfect fit for me. It felt like family and the instructors were very understanding. Upon finishing, I knew I wanted more and enrolled in the Veterinary Technician (VT) program. I absolutely loved the hands-on clinicals; assisting in surgery or drawing blood from a horse was amazing! At my VT graduation, I was shocked and proud to win the prestigious Richard Luebke Award.
During our VT program, a graduate from the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration program (BSHCA) spoke to us. This mom said if she hadn’t completed the bachelor’s degree program, she wouldn’t be able to take care of her kids like she can now. A light bulb went off and I felt like she was speaking to me. Six days after graduating with my VT associate degree, I started the online BSHCA program.
I am enjoying working at Montclair Animal Clinic, my former externship site. Prior to schooling, I worked in retail management, so I would love to use my education and manage in an animal setting. I am also dreaming about getting my masters and someday opening an animal sanctuary.
I followed my passion and I did this for my kids. I have a new career and I will have gotten my certificate, associate degree and bachelor’s in four years. Pima Medical was my beacon of hope, offering flexibility, understanding and a brighter future.
Do you have a dream to work in healthcare? Get started on your educational journey now!
