CNA worth it?

Looking for opinions/advice.

I am starting nursing school in two weeks. I'll be going part-time, working on my prereqs for the next year and half...wait listed to begin RN classes in 2010/2011...hoping to graduate in 2013.

This is a second career for me. I already have a BA (Business) and work as an executive assistant making nearly $17/hour (only 25 hrs/wk).

I recently learned that there is a Nursing Home 5 blocks from my house that will hire/train CNA's at their facility. From my understanding, you have to work for them for 4 months before eligible to take State Test (they facilitate all of that as well)...and then you are contracted to continue working for them for a set time period (I'm not sure how long). I'm pretty sure pay is around $10/11 per hour. But they also offer tuition reimbursement (a benefit I don't currently receive), and because they are such a large facility, I'm pretty sure their medical benefits are better/less costly than what I have right now.

I can't really afford the pay cut...but if I would be able to work nights, I could work 5 days/week (childcare would otherwise be an issue), and that would make up for the pay difference. But I hate to give up my 3 day work weeks. lol

Anyway...looking for opinions. Would it be worth it to receive the tuition assistance? Would the work experience as a STNA be beneficial as a new RN grad seeking employment? Any thoughts on the likelihood of working 3rd shift even while "in training"?

I hate to pester the HR guy until I'm pretty sure it's something I want to do. Help me decide...is it something I want to do? lol

Thanks!