Is it worth paying for a Voc. Certification to PAY for Nursing School?

[aevalenz]

Hi There,

I've been looking at taking vocational training to get a certification as a Phlebotomist, CNA, Pharm Tech, EKG or MRI Tech...In my area (Chicago), there are a lot to choose from...

I am currently taking my pre-reqs but will have just missed the deadline to apply for my top school of choice once I am finished next Spring, so I will be "twiddling my thumbs" for about 8 months after I finish pre-reqs. I figured a vocational Cert. might come in handy during that time, while I wait to start Nursing school.

I would also like to get some patient care experience given that I have none, so I wanted some input from fellow and former Nursing students to see how you are paying/paid for school.

I'm attempting to go back for a Master's and really overwhelmed about how much debt I will be taking on. Is it worth paying they high, upfront cost for a Phlebotomy training / certification program? And will I actually be able to find a job given that I have NO experience?

Thanks for all your help!

[alexia262013]

CNA is very good and definitely direct patient care and very employable. I live in PA, here class is like $1500 for 3 months training. I'm also a CNA and a pre-nursing student. As a CNA you can work at nursing homes, home health agencies and hospitals.. You'll just need a couple yrs of experience of long-term care if you want a hospital job.. Lowest starting salary is $9.50 if you start at a home health agency and you can make up to $15.00 in hr with more experience and working in a hospital.. Nursing home starts at $11.85-12.70 depending on where you go..

Good luck to you!