Preparing to apply to UCSF MEPN program... Any Advice?

I recently decided to pursue a career in nursing and I am starting my pre-reqs next week. I have a bachelors degree in English, and if I am lucky enough to get into all of the classes I need at my local junior college, I can apply to nursing school for next fall. The only problem is, I have no experience. So here is what I am thinking...

It might be best to stretch my classes out over the next 2 years so that I can add some work and volunteer experience to my application and also to solidify for myself that this is the right career path for me. I would love to pursue a master's degree in acute care or trauma nursing. Since I need to stay in the bay area my main choices are UCSF and Samuel Merritt.

What do you think would be the best ways for me to demonstrate leadership and community involvement while gaining experience in the medical field? Can you think of any tips that will help me present myself to the admissions dept. in the best possible light?Any advice or encouragement would be greatly appreciated.

Here are a few things to know about my situation that might help you help me. My undergraduate GPA is 3.7, I am confident that I can score well on the GRE if I study well for it. I have the ability to not work, have a very supportive partner and no kids or other responsibilities. So, I am ready to put all of my energy into this and get excellent grades.

On Monday I have an interview at a local hospital where I will be assigned some type of volunteer work. What other types of community involvement could I do to make good contacts and get experience? I have considered working as an EMT while I am in school, but I am not sure if that will be the best use of my time.