A Greenhorn Student Here for Your Wisdom

I'm sure a repeat question but here goes! I'm finishing my first semester of nursing school and need some advice. I haven't "worked" in a hospital have been doing clinical work during school. I know you guys have heard this from several people but I have my heart set on Emergency nursing. I've had some rotations through areas already and keep getting this idea affirmed over and over. The areas I've been in the, nurses just appear to hate what they are doing and really discourage people from going into nursing.

I know some people that work in emergency care and they LOVE it! No discouragement... I know the "med-surg route" is suggested but my sister-in-law was on that floor in one of the large hospitals near me and frankly she was treated like an animal. I almost came unglued on the nurse taking care of her...and I PROMISE I'm not being a "critical" nursing student. It was an ugly situation.

Advice.... What I would LIKE to do is write to a local hospital and ask for a job as a nursing assistant in the ER. (All they can do is say no.) Explain that I'm a nursing student and I would really like to work in the ER after graduation. I could then work into a nurse extern position when I'm eligible and be training and becoming familiar with the ER. Graduation comes and I'm familiar with my environment and they don't have to worry about me being uncomfortable.... Does this sound COMPLETELY unreasonable with my lack of experience. I'm 43 years old and I'm willing to do what it takes. But I don't want to do too much either.

Any advice will be so appreciated.....please be gentle as well....I'm also a rookie "greenhorn" student.