Take extra classes/licenses to be more competitive for nursing program?!

[Summers3]

Hi everyone!

A few people I have talked to are taking additional classes or maybe pursue a smaller license to put on their resume/experience to become more competitive for nursing school. Like for example, taking an EKG reading class or CPR or first aid class.

Does these extra classes really help all that much?

Also, I know those with a license such as CNA or phlebotomy would probably be competitive overall right? However, those I have talked to some people who have spent years for their CNA experience while I rather try to apply to nursing program as soon as possible........ then I would not be as competitive right (even though volunteering experience doesn't really count)?

Please share your opinions and experiences!

[THELIVINGWORST, ASN, RN]

Really I find that either becoming a phlebotomist or CNA helps with experience, confidence and networking with healthcare professionals. I advise you to go the CNA route to get a glimpse of what nurses really do.