Just saying thanks!

[amber_n_schultz]

Hello,

I just wanted to say thanks because although I have not posted on allnurses.com in a while I have followed discussions and what I have seen on here has helped me realize I need to start planning to make my dream of becoming a nurse a reality.

After having some issues arise that have kept me from pursing my career in the nursing field I have finally decided to go take a CNA class through a nursing home in Northern Va. My goal is to become a Registered Nurse and work in Pediatrics eventually but at the moment I'm unable to finance nursing school. I'm hoping that the nursing home which is within walking distance of where I am living will offer tuition assistance, and I am planning on applying for the HCA scholarship which is a full scholaship to go to either nursing school or for those who want to become a Radiology Technologist but I have to start and finish my Pre-requisites before I apply.

I know CNA's don't make very much money but it's a starting point for me and I am just happy that at the age of 24 I am finally able to start looking into giving myself a better future. I have worked in the past as a Medication Technician for the handicapped and have done many of the same duties that CNA's do but I was never able to become Certified through MD, but I know what I am getting myself into atleast.

The program I am going through is free as long as I agree to work part-time for the facility after I go thru the class and get certified which is fine by me because I will need a job while I am getting my Math's, English's and other requried classes out of the way.

For a while I wasn't sure if I wanted to be a nurse or not because I have heard that most nurse's either don't like the way they are treated or they don't feel like the pay is consistant with the work load they are demanded to do. fortunately, I have an aunt who has been a nurse for 22 years who told me that nursing is just like any other job, there will be the ups and downs,the problems just like in any other job but if I enjoy helping others and taking care of those in need than I should stick with Nursing because the field needs compassionate people and I am very compassionate and I live to help those in need.

Anyhoo, I really enjoy allnurses.com and think its a wonderful place to find info, guidance and friendship. I will check back with you all soon and let you know how my CNA classes are going!

~Amber~

[Keepstanding, ASN, RN]

good luck amber, you will do great i am sure ! :heartbeat

[CHATSDALE]

glad that you are taking that first step..you will be successful if you ut your mind to it

[TopazLover, BSN, RN]

Congrats. CNA is a great start. Many schools either require this or look favorably on those who come with this background. It shows initiative and you will know some of the basics.