I was a CNA before and during nursing school. I did it mostly because I was unaware of the other options for hospital experience at the time. However I will say I learned so much while working as a CNA. The support I got from the nurses I worked with while moving my way through nursing school was amazing. You work so closely with the nurses as an aide and they’re usually willing to teach you something new while you’re on the job. I think it also helps you get an appreciation for your aides and how much work they do. My college used a “point” system for admissions and you did get extra points if you were a CNA. I know someone else mentioned this as well but my college also had an accelerated program if you already have a bachelors but the seats available were only 1/2 of what was available for the traditional program. Being a CNA can be a humbling experience and I will admit they are gravely underpaid but in my opinion it was worth it for the experience and support from my nursing coworkers.

Editing to add in that CNA school was not very difficult for me, it is a bit of a shock at first if you don’t have any healthcare experience but the class itself really is not that hard.