I got a job doing room service (RSA) for the food & nutrition at my local hospital as I started my pre-reqs. It's entry level and I got a ton of patient contact experience. When I got my CNA license, about a year later, I was hired as a CNA on the floor where I was the RSA. Anyway, if you are looking to get your foot in the door at a hospital food & nutrition is a good way to meet people and network without having to have a certification first. I'm inclined to agree with the other folks here that being a CNA is an invaluable experience if you plan to be a nurse. Most cities have a fair number of CNA/MA programs that operate all on their own. I got my CNA and my CNA II in about 2 months time for about half the cost of the local community college. Check your state's nursing board website most have a list of accredited programs. -Rob