LP777

Yes! You absolutely, 100% positively, should have CNA experience before becoming a nurse! Many people think of nursing as glamourous. Becoming a CNA will let you see just what nurses have to deal with. Also - as far as getting through nursing school, becoming a CNA with help you more than you can ever imagine. I became a CNA while I was on the wait list for nursing school, and I really think that is what made me more successful than many of my classmates. I didn't have to spend time learning how to take a blood pressure or make a bed. I also have gained some insight into the pecking order of hospitals, and feel I will really appreciate and be treat my future aides well and be able to use them well! - I'm an aide on a telemtry unit in a hospital. I make $15/hr. Best of luck to you!

----------- is a beast. I just finished block 3 last semester. Make sure you click (and read!) every single link she posts in Blackboard and in her powerpoints. A lot of her test questions come directly from random places she casually mentions! Good luck with her.... : (

Nursing school is not impossible! The key to it all is to stay organized! Spend 5 hours with the syllabus and a planner within the first week of school. I literally make copies of my syllabus and cut and paste them into my planner. Nothing gets lost in translation. Also - figure out the study partner situation. I HATE group work, but took the advice of one of my professors. You need to find someone you think is super smart who can give you a different perspective on things. I am a C.N.A., and my partner is a physical trainer. Make sure they take good notes in class too, and then meet once a week - even if you don't have a test. You'll be amazed at what they hear in class vs what you hear in class. Before tests, put your headphones on and don't listen to other students who are freaking out. And don't go to happy hour with people who complain about instructors, clinicals, etc... You're not in school to be BFF's with everyone. Keep calm and carry on. You can do this.