I have been a LVN since 2008 and I was not a CNA beforehand. When I was in the LVN program it wasn't a requirement, but now, in that same program, it is a prerequisite. My advice to you is to be very hands on during clinicals. My first job was at a nursing home and I would actually make rounds sometimes with the CNAs just so I could have some real hands on experience. Also, this made for a better relationship between me and the CNAs that worked my halls. I never went in with the attitude that "oh, they are just CNAs". I feel like it is a team effort and I learned a lot from them.