This topic is an inquiry. I am at the beginning of my journey to becoming a nurse. I am 25 and currently completing pre-reqs. My short term goal is to take on either a CNA or MA certificate so that I can begin to gain some clinical experience and exposure to prep myself for nursing school. I am having a tough time deciding which certificate to pursue. The MA takes so much more time and will likely push applications to nursing school back a whole year, but I have had so many people tell me how much I am going to hate being a CNA. I'm tough I know I can handle being a CNA as long as I feel like it is truly going to help me become a better nurse. I really want to be a nurse, and a good one at that. I am seeking advice from the nursing community on this decision and any other advice you would like to offer to someone who has little to no medical experience, but will be beginning applications in the upcoming year. Thank you.