I don't know anything about Mercy College, but I do think it's a good idea that you are working as a CNA so that you have the opportunity to experience the health care environment. My suggestion is that if you plan on working as a nurse in the hospital, then be a CNA there. It has always been my firm belief that a good nurse will do CNA work as his/her day allows and not just sit back and eat Bon Bons (if they have an occasional slow day) while his/her CNA runs ragged!:)