2 answers
shania
Student
Manchester, Connecticut
1
Question
Asked
473 views
Im a 16 year old junior , I want the intiative to become a CNA. Ive been intrested in healthcare since i was a little girl and I want to take a step. Is there any way to get connected ? Especially since my school doesn't offer it.
Please let me know any advice ! anything is helpful.
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2 answers
Gabe S
Certified Nursing Assistant
1
Answer
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Gabe’s Answer
Consider exploring community colleges and vocational schools in your area to see if they offer CNA or HHA courses for high school students. Nursing assistants are in high demand, especially in nursing homes. Some nursing homes might even pay for your CNA class if you commit to working with them for a while. It's important to research nearby nursing homes that offer such programs. Check reviews to ensure they treat staff fairly and offer good working conditions.
If you're interested in starting work without certification, consider applying to assisted living or memory care facilities. These places often don't require a CNA certificate and can offer valuable experience. Connect with the nursing staff there, especially those in management, to learn about their career paths and gain insights for your own journey.
This career path is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Good CNAs are always needed, and dedicated healthcare professionals are becoming rarer. With motivation and compassion, you can become an outstanding CNA. I wish you all the best on this journey!
If you're interested in starting work without certification, consider applying to assisted living or memory care facilities. These places often don't require a CNA certificate and can offer valuable experience. Connect with the nursing staff there, especially those in management, to learn about their career paths and gain insights for your own journey.
This career path is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Good CNAs are always needed, and dedicated healthcare professionals are becoming rarer. With motivation and compassion, you can become an outstanding CNA. I wish you all the best on this journey!
Sue West
Retired military
20
Answers
Updated
Sue’s Answer
CNAs are needed more as people get older. I spent two years in a nursing home as a ward clerk after retiring from the military. Here’s what I learned about CNAs:
1. Being a good CNA requires a special kind of person. The job can be tough but very fulfilling.
2. People who are motivated and genuine are likely to get hired.
3. No experience is necessary. Many places offer CNA training and might even pay you during the training.
4. Pay is improving. CNAs make an average of $39,430 a year, or $18.96 an hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As of January 2026, the average salary for a CNA in Connecticut is $39,701 a year, or about $19.09 an hour. This amounts to roughly $763 a week or $3,308 a month.
5. Starting as a CNA is a good step if you want to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) later on.
I suggest reaching out to hospitals, nursing homes, hospice care, and home health care facilities. Best of luck!
1. Being a good CNA requires a special kind of person. The job can be tough but very fulfilling.
2. People who are motivated and genuine are likely to get hired.
3. No experience is necessary. Many places offer CNA training and might even pay you during the training.
4. Pay is improving. CNAs make an average of $39,430 a year, or $18.96 an hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As of January 2026, the average salary for a CNA in Connecticut is $39,701 a year, or about $19.09 an hour. This amounts to roughly $763 a week or $3,308 a month.
5. Starting as a CNA is a good step if you want to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN) later on.
I suggest reaching out to hospitals, nursing homes, hospice care, and home health care facilities. Best of luck!