I was recently laid off from my social services job and am currently taking the pre-req's for an A.A.S. in nursing. I do receive unemployment, but will not qualify for the 599 program where I can attend school without having to search for employment because the nursing program is not guaranteed to finish in 2 years. I was considering completing a CNA or phlebotomy course -- anything that offered the flexibility to work and attend school. Would it be more beneficial as a future RN to work as a CNA? And would experience as a phlebotomist be of any benefit? Any advice would be great!

Any hospital experience is beneficial. Phlebotomy experience isn't going to help you get your foot in the door anywhere but it may help you greatly in the hiring manager interviews should you advance that far.

Hospital experience yes but not the phlebotomy experience. The ancillary staff draws blood in many facilities anyway. Good luck!

True, but the patient interaction you're going to see as a phlebotomist will help you explain your patient focus and client care should you be asked about it in an interview. At least more so than a person who sat unemployed, worked at applebees, a bar, etc.