Sounds like you are from Texas Dude. Tennessee here. Glad to hear you are getting things underway. Tennessee doesn't require CNA prior to RN as far as I know. When I made the decision to change careers to nursing, I was working full time in an industrial office setting. I knew I had the desire for nursing but I went CNA first to make sure I had the stomach for it. I will never regret that decision no matter how high up the nursing food chain I ultimately progress. Not only did I get the hands on experience I personally needed, I will also have invaluable insight into what is required of the hard working individuals I will someday supervise. I am now in my 3rd Qtr of a 1 year vocational school LPN class and look forward to working in the field while going on to pursue my RN. I would love to have gone straight BSN but am having to take it one step at a time as funds allow. Best of luck on your path !