I'm new to the site, and studying to be a nurse with a masters in nursing. My first step is studying to be a cna. If anyone knows a better route, I'd be more than apreciative to hear it.
Welcome to the site!
Actually, you're going about things the right way: starting from the bottom up. You'll gain experience, and will help you later on.
'Cat'
You could debate if working as a CNA makes you a better nurse. Personally I think it gives you great advantages. You are taught how to "touch" patients which is something a lot of new nurses fumble over. You must organized your time and prioritize, just like a nurse does.
So yes, do some CNA work, and as soon as you can get into a nursing program (a registered nurse if you want a masters eventually).
Wish you lots of luck, you can find helpful links for CNAs here:
http://www.nursefriendly.com/cna
Best of luck!
Andrew Lopez, RN
http://www.4nursing.com