Assuming I'm viewing CNA as an "internship," How long should I do that before furthering my nursing education?

I'm trying to decide what to do here... not only does CNA certification cost approximately $850-950 (including tuition, books, and fees), but when you get your certificate and go find a job, the pay is amazingly low.

I hear being a CNA for a while is highly recommended for those interested in getting into nursing. How long do most people do the CNA job before going back to school for the rest of their training?

Thank you.
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Working as a CNA is good experience for going into nursing. But don't put off your education to work as a CNA. In other words...further your education as soon as you can. You can always work and take classes part time. Only you know your financial circumstances. Maybe you need the income from working in order to go to college. But take classes as soon as you can. If your goal is to be a nurse, do it.

Being a CNA before going further in the medical field is a really good leaning and teaching experience. Before I got into the nursing program I worked as a CNA and even though the work is a little bit more then a nurse. It will make you a better a nurse in the long run and be very helpful while in school. If going for LPN or RN I would then try to get a job in a hospital cause in a hospital you will get more hands on knowledge and also better pay.