Paid/Volunteer Experience Before Apps?

[cyborgbarbie]

Hello all,

I'm just beginning my journey on the direct-entry MSN track. When researching schools I noticed that most programs simply list the prerequisites, without mentioning experience. Do most programs require either paid (i.e. CNA), shadowing, or volunteer experience for their applicants?

Most school sites don't seem to have in-depth information about what they're looking for in potential students, so I'm sort of at a loss as to how to maximize my competitiveness.

I know it seems like a no-brainer, but I need to figure out my schedule for next semester and I'm wondering if I should add in a CNA course.

Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated!