Working as a CNA while in nursing school? Thoughts?

[Smokey1129]

I am currently in the first semester of my nursing school clinicals. I've noticed that many of my peers have some level of healthcare experience, namely CNA experience. I've worked in the restaurant industry for almost 20 years and do not have any experience within a medical setting. I am feeling very inexperienced compared to the other students in my cohort. I have considered obtaining a CNA position, however, the program I am currently enrolled in is very rigorous and only allows for me to work part-time to be successful. I just don't think it would be feasible to work as a CNA with how low the pay is; I literally do not think I could pay my bills working part-time as a CNA. Working part-time as a bartender/server in a restaurant is absolutely feasible with the pay being double to triple the rate of a CNA's hourly pay.

I am in a tough predicament because of my lack of experience. Have others been successful not working in the medical field prior to becoming a nurse, or will this be a huge detriment to me if I continue to working in the service industry during nursing school? Any further insight is would be greatly appreciated!

[Neo Soldier, BSN, RN]

7 hours ago, Smokey1129 said:

I literally do not think I could pay my bills working part-time as a CNA. Working part-time as a bartender/server in a restaurant is absolutely feasible with the pay being double to triple the rate of a CNA's hourly pay.

Keep the job you have now. Don't make any major changes while in nursing school. 

 

7 hours ago, Smokey1129 said:

I am in a tough predicament because of my lack of experience.

When you graduate, be willing to get in where you can to gain the needed experience. I have a friend who didn't have any work experience but was able to land her dream job after nursing school. Make sure your resume looks really good, and ask your professors for letters of recommendation.

Just a quick tip, after the first semester of nursing school, you're typically able to take the CNA exam. You could get a PRN job and work maybe once a twice a month.