How should I become an RN?

[amandax]

Hey everyone, I've been reading on this site for a few months now and just recently decided to post on here. I'm sorry if my post is in the wrong category, I only had a couple of category choices and I didn't know which would be best for my topic.

I have several questions/concerns.

I really want to become an RN, it is my dream job...I just don't know where to start. I'm 19 going on 20, single and no children so I have a lot of options, but money is tight for me since I only work part time at a restaurant and I try to support myself the best I can.

I thought about becoming a CNA first, it's an 8 week program and costs $1,500 which I think is a bit expensive. I would have to save up for a few months before I could attend the program. I would also need to find a way to work the CNA program around my work schedule since the classes are in the day mon-fri. I just started this restaurant job about 4 months ago so I can't really quit so soon.

My RN program is also very competitive (no waiting list though, which is good). There is no guarantee I will get into the program after I complete the pre reqs, so I would like to have a 'back up plan'.

I don't want to waste too much time, is it even worth the time and money to become a CNA and to work as one? Should I volunteer at a hospital instead to gain some health experience before trying to enter a RN program?

Or I guess the most simple option would be to start pre reqs now and head straight for the RN program without gaining any type of experience. I'm not sure if this is the best way to go though.

Sorry for being all over the place with my questions, I'm just so lost Lol. What path did you all take to become an RN? :)

[VivaLaVespaGirl, BSN, MSN]

Thanks, Episteme! I definitely found the NCLEX pass rates on the state board. I will do some more digging on the AACN site as well. Appreciate your response!