Tatyana Stonestreet took advantage of extra time during the COVID pandemic and enrolled in the Medical Assistant program at our Albuquerque campus. The opportunity allowed her to change the trajectory of her and her family’s life.
Here’s her story in her words.
“After my husband required a couple of serious heart surgeries and suffered severe heart damage, I took on the role of providing for our three children and us. For 10 years, I worked 10-12 hours a day, 6-7 days a week as a waitress. I missed so much family time and events in my children’s lives. I always wanted to go back to school, but never felt like I had the time. Then COVID hit … and I finally had time. I chose Pima Medical Institute’s Medical Assistant program because everyone I talked with made me feel like I was family.
All of my classes were taught virtually, which was challenging for me. But, my instructors were encouraging, quick to respond to questions and went the extra mile for us. There was a time I almost dropped out when it became financially very rough for us, but Pima Medical provided a work-study position, which I loved and it helped us stay afloat. When it came time for in-person labs and hands-on experience, everything made sense.
My externship provided great experience. I was recently hired at Presbyterian Healthcare Services and I can’t wait to start my new career as a medical assistant. I will finally be able to provide for my family, cover medical expenses, and most importantly, have time for my family. This is going to be such a blessing for us!
I am so grateful to Pima Medical for helping me achieve my dream. Don’t wait and don’t be afraid … chase after your dream!”
