Snuggs105

I love Dansko's clogs! They should be a little loose in the back. I go to Pennsylvania, there is a Dansko outlet there and you can get the shoes for $60! But its hit or miss with styles/colors. I ended up buying a pair that are not clogs and while they're comfortable for a short time, my feet killed me by the end of the day. So make sure you get the clogs! And get fitted at a nursing store!

Hello, I need some advice on managing finances while in school. I am unable to quit work 100% while in school. I have moved back home with my parents, but still pay rent (although significantly less than an apartment), car insurance, bills etc. I have worked for my present company for over 12 years, and they are allowing me to work 30 hours a week so I can keep my health insurance. I am thankful for this, however, there is a long commute for me to/from work/school and I am unable to focus on my studying like I need to be. As a result I failed the Fluids & Electrolyte exam, and therefore did not pass my Concepts1 (Med-Surg) class. I am trying to avoid this in January when I go back. I wanted to know how people survived school when they didn't have a real support system at home. I have no prior medical experience other than my two semesters in school. I can obtain my CNA license, but I am not sure if financially it will be sufficient. I must keep some form of Health Insurance while in school also (no husband to do that and i'm too old to be on my parents). Can anyone offer any advice, pros/cons on taking a CNA position? I figured it would give me some good experience and help me gain confidence talking to patients, as well as becoming more proficient with comfort/hygiene. Or are there other positions that are entry level that may pay more? I have heard that some hospitals will allow a tech to work part time, but pay them full time wages, that they will help pay for college, and offer free health insurance. I make $18 a hour right now, I know I will take a significant pay cut, but it might be worth it if it gives me more opportunity to study. Can anyone give me some insight into how your hospital works? Hours, pay for newbies do they offer health insurance, is it expensive/free and how do they pay for school, and if they do pay, how long do I have to work there before they do (6 months/1 year etc.). Also if anyone has any advice on how they fit study time in and work full time, or alternative ideas, I am open to suggestions :) Any advice is appreciated! Thank you.

SkylerW I’m glad you posted this question; I was going to ask something similar. In my college, we do not need to be a CNA before we start, you can apply for your CNA license after you pass fundamentals in Maryland. We just have to fill out a form with our transcript and go get finger printed. However, I think it would be a plus to get your license and maybe even work experience beforehand. I was terrified during my first clinical because they just threw us into the hospital and said here; give this person a bed bath, toilet, change their sheets, ambulate, etc. when all we did was watch a few video’s first and practice as “team” on a mannequin. I feel like if I was a tech first, I would have overcome all those fears rather quickly.