NEW Nursing Student In Roanoke Seeking Advise....Please Help

[Nurse_4_Training]

Hello To Everyone That Will Take The Time To Respond,

Here goes nothing...I'm new to the Roanoke area and I have been looking into several ADN programs in the area...While I have my eyes set on attending NVR 2 year ADN program, I will consider other options...But my dilemma is trying to become competitive in this job market...I am currently a CNA (I have my license in VA and GA) but I want to know if taking other courses will make me more marketable (spell check eg. Medical Billing/Coding, EKG Tech, or even Phlebotomy classes) after obtaining my RN. My philosphy is extra education shouldn't hender but help. I'm mean as a RN do you learn how to do the same thing as a EKG Tech or other medical fields and if not wouldn't that be seen as perk to an employer.

My next question is what is the current hourly/salary rate for a new ADN grad (will not graduate until 2015?) The last post I saw for new grads in this area was 19.34-19.50 at Carilion but it was posted sometime in 2010.

Finally (for now), is there any difference major differences between the two major Hospital chains in this rural area...HCA and Carillion.

Any and all information on this subject and doing nursing in Roanoke would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks To All!!!!!