getthemtothegeek

I'm currently taking the prerequisite classes to apply to the second degree BSN programs. I don't have any real professional work experience, having gone from getting my BA to then take a year figuring out what to do with my life, prepping for and taking the GRE. Long story short, I've wound up spending time taking classes required for the various accelerated programs I'm applying to. Last summer, I took a CNA course, and last month passed my state's CNA exam. Thing is, with my schedule for this semester and my lack of work experience, the CNA jobs I can find that work with my schedule are few and far between, excepting night shift. (And I kinda hesitate to do nights because I don't know what lack of sleep at least on some days will do to my academic performance.) I'm worried I may not find a CNA job before next semester, (When I can schedule my classes with work shifts in mind, like say, nothing before 5pm, which is my intent.) and therefore, before I send out the applications to the programs. Given that my grades in the sciences aren't stellar (in the Bs and Cs) currently, (the ones in courses like psychology and statistics are only As, but I know the sciences matter more) and I was hoping that the CNA experience would boost the applications, and I really, really don't want to have to delay starting a program another year. (I'm 27 now, and I really want to get on with my life, and out of this "limbo/further education" stage.) Aside from the obvious (doing well in this semester's courses, which include A&P and micro) what else can I do to strengthen the application? I've heard that even just having the CNA certification is helpful, but I can't imagine it will make a huge difference. What should I do?